But, little did Viv know that fate had plans for her. Soon her world would be turned upside down, and inside out. She was about to experience the most turbulent trials of her life. Ones that would prove both exciting and painful. She lapsed into her favourite daydream, of that initial wonderful meeting with Laurence. He was her first love, and the whole memory remained vivid…

* * * * * * * * * *

It was Spring holiday, and Viv decided to take a week’s vacation to celebrate her twenty-first birthday. She travelled alone to the Sienne Hotel in Bournemouth, and heaved a sigh of relief. A change of scenery and a break from her life, or lack of it, and all of the turmoil, both personally and at work, was exactly what she needed.

Bournemouth was a relatively busy, seaside town just a few hours drive from London. An interesting place with shops clustered in between all of the family-owned bed and breakfasts that were so common in this area. They were also the bread and butter of the majority of the townsfolk’s existence.

The summer season typically ran from the end of March until early September. During this time, the bed and breakfasts provided a base of operations for thousands of tourists, who flooded the town for its idyllic location. Each day the throngs of people roamed up and down the streets aimlessly, in quest of ways to break the summer boredom.

The hotels that dotted the coastline were few and typically sold out months in advance. They provided some relief in the form of entertainment performed by some of the UK’s top, but struggling, musicians and singers.

Viv unpacked, took a quick bath, then went down to the restaurant to have a meal. Afterward, she wandered around the interesting shops. Although not in the mood to make serious purchases, she enjoyed window shopping. Buying things on impulse was not her usual way.

It was not long before Viv returned to the hotel where she entered the lounge to watch the comings and goings of the guests. Soon bored, she went up to her room, hoping for an early night’s sleep. The bed was comfortable, but she was unable to drift off. There was far too much going on in her head. No matter how much she tried to clear her mind, it was useless. She felt far too restless and after two hours, climbed out of bed, dressed again and went down to the hotel bar.

Unfortunately, or perhaps just as well since she could not drink without getting tipsy, the bar was closed. She decided to roam the beach near the hotel, in the hopes that the warm summer sea breezes would relax her. She stopped briefly, enjoying the warm air and the beautiful, bright moon that overlooked the glistening bay. Suddenly, from out of nowhere, a very deep voice startled her.

“Nice night for a walk, I couldn’t get to sleep either.”

Viv turned slowly and saw the large, dark silhouette of a man. She quickly regained her composure.

“Oh, it’s not only that,” she replied smiling, not wanting the stranger to sense her interest in him. “I needed the sound and smell of the sea to help me relax. The scenery is so beautiful at night.“

Something about him intrigued her, and when he stepped in closer, she realized what it was. In her estimation, around six feet three, with a strong, muscular body, large thighs, dark hair, striking blue eyes and an irresistible smile. He wore dark cargo pants, sandals and a yellow vest that showed off his biceps. Everything seemed to fit his body, as though it were tailor-made for him.

“Hi,” she said, offering her hand. “My name is Viv.”

The stranger smiled then extended his massive paw of a hand into her outstretched fingers, and introduced himself as Laurence. They chatted easily while they strolled along happily together. As it turned out, he was a friend of the manager of the Sienne Hotel.

Laurence lived in Grenada, near the Spanish coast, and he sailed his boat to this town about three or four times a year. It was necessary to get away from the hectic schedule of his job as a construction salesman. He told Viv that his long work hours made it difficult to unwind when on holidays.

He explained his habit of taking long walks late into the evening, just to relax and enjoy the evening breeze. If first impressions meant anything at all, Viv was immediately impressed with his presence, beyond just the physical.

Laurence was the type of man who commanded respect. He was confident, straightforward and assertive. Virtues gained from his job, where he dealt regularly with difficult customers no doubt. He was also the kind of man who could get his way with Viv. Probably the reason why she simply could not refuse when he invited to take her out on his boat.

They agreed to meet on the dock near the hotel the next morning. As they parted, he leaned forward and gave her a light kiss on the lips. Gently, but enough to let her know that he could mean business.

The next morning Viv awoke and looked out her window across the bay. The sun had risen a few hours earlier, burning off the morning dew, and the air smelled crisp and fresh. It was a perfect day for a jaunt on Laurence’s boat, although Viv was not so keen on the water these days. She thought back a few years when her friends had talked her into jet bike skiing. It was going to be her first time. Hesitant at first, but not wanting to spoil anyone’s fun, she went along.

The weather that day had been stormy with bad gales and a rough sea. Nonetheless, Viv’s friends cajoled her into going. She could not take being called a ‘chicken.’ There were three jet ski bikes, and she was the only pillion passenger. Suddenly, the driver of her ski bike sped up into the air high above a wave. The jet ski turned upside down over a huge wave.

The driver yelled out, “Hold your breath!” She did, but was terrified that the bike would come down on her head. Fortunately, she had fallen deep enough into the water to prevent that. Once under, she was unable to distinguish which way was up. Instead, she tried to relax and wait to float back to the surface.

Eventually, she reached daylight, but only for an instant before another wave engulfed her. She went down at least five times and could not catch a single breath. With little air left in her lungs, she doubted her survival. It was true; your whole life begins to pass you by in an instant when you feel you are about to die. Just at that moment, a hand grabbed and pulled her out of the water. She broke the surface once again and escaped into the sunlight and air.

Viv’s saviour turned out to be a friend on his jet ski bike. She did not have the strength to pull herself up onto the ski bike, so he held her with one hand and rush them ashore. She swallowed sea water as the waves engulfed her on the trip toward the safety of dry land. Luckily, one of their other friends had saved her driver the same way.

Viv returned to reality in her hotel room. ‘Good grief,’ she panicked. ‘I hope none of that happens again!’ Nonetheless, it was an experience that terrified her of the water ever since.

She drew herself a bath, manicuring her toenails and fingernails, while the water ran. Best to look as good as possible. This guy might turn out to be a real dud, but by the looks of him, that scenario was unlikely to play out. Could this man be the right one for her? It might be too early to tell, but she certainly hoped Laurence could be that one and only, her first and last. She finished her grooming and selected clothes for the day.

It was not a good idea to dress too casually for a day on the water. But, the outfit she chose was selected to impress Laurence. A lilac, gypsy-style skirt and a cerise, off-the-shoulder blouse. It was a bit revealing but comfortable and cool.

‘Something to easily slip out of if the situation warranted,’ she thought wickedly. ‘Gosh, I don’t even know Laurence, and I’m already screwing him,’ she laughed. With that enigmatic thought, she slipped into her high-heeled sandals and left for the dock.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Laurence found it difficult to sleep the remainder of that night. There was something about Viv that not only got his attention but seemed to bewitch him. Something beyond the obvious physical attraction. After all, anyone could see she was gorgeous. Athletically built, like him, but busty, something he appreciated in a woman. She also possessed a very confident and mysterious air about herself. .

He bathed, growing increasingly aroused thinking of Viv. He visualized the two of them entwined in love’s embrace on the deck of his boat. He saw himself entering her from every position possible, repeatedly. He fumbled with his zipper, trying to get his blue trousers done up over the bulge that had appeared there.

Finally, he was dressed. He wore a light blue shirt, opened to the waist. The sleeves were rolled halfway up his forearms. He chose his favourite sunglasses, slipped them on and smiled in the mirror. Then he pulled on his open denim sandals and headed off to meet Viv.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Viv arrived at the dock at the same time as Laurence. He walked up and kissed her. More passionately than before, but slower and just long enough to get them both aroused. Then he moved back, motioning out towards the end of the pier.

“That’s my boat over there.”

He pointed to a thirty-foot sailboat that gently swayed at the end of its tether on the dock. Taking Viv’s arm in his, he led her to his boat. He helped her in, then undid its tether. Two glasses of chardonnay appeared like magic, and the two sat down to enjoy the journey along the gently rolling sea. Viv knew how drink affected her but thought to refuse the offered glass would seem rude.

As the time and journey passed along, they sat closer together. It did not take long before their arms were wrapped tightly around each other. After an hour into the journey, much small talk and several more glasses of wine, they became quiet.

Viv looked into the bright, blue eyes of Laurence. He hungrily returned her gaze. This was the place and time to drop the rope, and he did just that. The drink had relaxed Viv enough to lower her inhibitions. She could not resist placing her hand on his thigh as he slipped his left arm around her waist.

They sat back for a quiet moment’s reflection. The only sound was the placid water gurgling under the boat, which rolled idly on the gentle swell, and the occasional seagull call. Everything seemed so perfect for both of them.

“We’re quite alone here, Laurence. Not a boat anywhere in sight,” Viv said half inquisitively. “Where exactly are we?” she added, not really concerned about their exact position.

The only thing certain was that she was here alone, in the middle of the sea, with a man she had just met the night before. Normally, her alarm bells might have told her to panic. But, there was something about those deep blue eyes that hypnotized her into feeling she could bend to his will. No matter what that might be. Viv had found the chemistry she needed with a man and was ready to be taken, for the first time.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Chapter Two

Laurence grinned back at Viv, reading between the lines. She seized the opportunity to slide her hand along the inside of his left thigh. Her fingers brushed something solid, and she moved her hand back, slightly embarrassed. She lifted her face to his with an unasked question in her eyes. Instantly he kissed her on the lips. A long, lingering, gentle kiss. Tingles went through her whole body. Breathless, she pulled away from his embrace.

“Oh, Laurence, I don’t know you well enough for that kind of kissing!” she exclaimed half-amused, but fully aroused. She had briefly kissed before, but none had affected her in this amazing way.

Laurence seized Viv tightly in his arms and covered her with long, deep kisses. Along her neck, shoulders and tops of her breasts. Then he pressed his entire body against hers. His strong, sailor’s hands cupped her breasts and caressed them. He had a clean, compelling man smell about him. As he fondled her breasts, there was a ‘need for sex’ expression on his face, which added greatly to her arousal. He placed her hand on his erection which felt very thick. ‘A bit too thick?’ she wondered.

Laurence moved his hand onto Viv’s smooth thigh, slowly moving further along and up her silky skin. His fingers slid inwards and came closer to the part she longed for him to touch. Instinctively, perhaps anxiously, her thighs parted to let him explore completely, as she unzipped him. She had read sexy romance novels and hoped she would not appear to be a novice.

“I want to see it Laurence,” she said in a trembling voice. “Let me see it?”

“So you shall babe,” he responded. “It’s throbbing, and it needs you!”

A moment later Laurence’s stiff, naked organ was revealed. It pulsated with eagerness for enjoyment, and was now in her firm grasp. His hand had already taken possession of the centre of her desires. The movement of his fingers separated Viv’s tender lips and circled her sensual bud. He lightly flicked it, which made her gasp with lust for him. When Viv pulled Laurence’s organ out into the warm daylight to see it better, she marvelled at its beauty. Tanned, thick, veined and long, with a purplish, heavily-ridged, large, shiny head.

Viv put her lips over it and sucked gently. The skin was so soft, and the sliding of his skin up and down the shaft drove her crazy. She longed to have it inside her. She licked all around the ridge, while her fingers moved up and down the base of his erection with a gentle pressure. Laurence groaned with pleasure.

“Careful, babe, it’s nearly there!” he gasped.

Viv moved back slightly, relieved that she was doing it right. They embraced and kissed passionately. A wind had picked up, and now they rolled about together in this position, while the boat rocked with the undulations of the sea. They fell off the bunk but continued their movements on deck without missing a beat, or so it seemed.

Viv still had a tight grasp on Laurence’s member. He reached for a cushion to put underneath her firm, round butt. He pushed up her skirt and almost tore it off in his excitement and lust, even though she was helping him. His eyes wandered over her brown legs and belly. As he pushed her lacy black g-string aside, he used his fingers expertly inside her, slowly, then more furiously.

Her breathing was laboured as she had multiple orgasms. She could feel and see his truncheon as it menaced and touched her, sometimes resting on her legs. It sent ripples of delight from her toes to her head. The anticipation outweighed her nervousness at what was surely going to happen next. His obvious need and pleasure in what he was doing, intensified her arousal. Soon, she felt ready to burst with frustration to be finished off. Sexual tension permeated her entire body.

She clutched his waist and pulled him in toward her. He rose and placed himself into his best thrusting position, also very ready. The love juice trickled freely from his manhood with excitement, he was on the brink of exploding. Viv gasped as Laurence thrust himself into her. It hurt a little at first, but she soon began moaning in lust and pleasure, as he pushed into her repeatedly. It seemed as if he wanted to push right through, and she would have let him if that were possible.

He slowly kissed her on the mouth, then more deeply, widening her lips with his. He was also opening and stretching her most sensitive place, which sent waves of pleasure and slight pain at the same time. He could hear her voice, “It hurts. Not too deep!” But she loved it.

“Shall I stop?” he joked.

“Don’t you dare!”

Laurence continued to thrust regardless, and pounded her delicate flesh with each movement. It seemed as if this young man had fasted too long and was anxious to satiate his hunger. Fortunately for her, she was the lucky recipient of his abstention. Beads of perspiration fell in rivulets from both of their bodies.

At times she managed to use her internal muscles to squeeze and push. Other times, she just tried to bear the pleasure without screaming out loud. Laurence’s movements varied from fast to slow, shallow to deep, at times going upwards and downwards with his rhythmic pelvic thrusting.

His rigid stomach and muscled arms shook with the effort. She gave her whole body up to him, and her orgasms came quickly. One after the other. He was relentless and groaned, but never tired. She pulled his face closer to hers, and they kissed passionately which intensified the feelings. Their bodies shuddered in unison as the intense orgasms hit them both. He pulsated strongly, while she continued to shudder as their loins pressed tightly together.

They lay attached for minutes, exhausted, enjoying and reliving the incredible sensations. Eventually, he rolled over and lay down beside her. It was difficult to get their breathing back into a normal rhythm, both being totally spent and unable to talk. They held hands feeling very close and satisfied. She hoped there was a way they could always stay together.

Eventually, they regained their composure enough to clean up with tissues. She raised herself and reached over the boat to dip her hankie into the cool seawater. She cleaned up anything the tissues had not picked up off of them. She hid the proof of this being her first sexual experience placing all the used tissues into a plastic bag. It suddenly occurred to her that they should have used a condom, for health reasons.

However, they had become too swept up in the emotion of lust to consider it, but the thought had crossed her mind. She was on the pill due to her monthly excessive pains. So, while there was little chance of becoming pregnant, she was fully aware of sexually transmitted diseases.

After a short while Laurence said, “We can sail back easily, the wind is almost set fair. Then we can sip some champagne together. Do you feel happy now my sexy lady?”

She smiled at him. His voice possessed an assertive but gentle, deep tone. Verging on the edge of a growl. There was something beyond simple lust that touched her regarding this man. She was pleased that he was the one who had taken her virginity. Intuitively she knew no other man could measure up to Laurence. She also appreciated the innate tenderness he showed towards ‘his woman.’ It was the kind she had read about when romances happened on board. The type sailors were supposedly prone to.

Laurence got up and stretched himself, his arms reaching far above his head. Popping sounds could be heard as he untangled his joints and rigid muscles. His muscular, naked body glistened in the sunlight. The sea water coated his body, making him look like a Greek god. Viv just sat and marvelled at this study in male perfection as he set to work. Within two minutes, the mast was raised. In two more, the sail was hoisted and set. He then said the ‘sheet,’ was ‘hauled aft.’

The skiff sailed along merrily, but too quickly, Viv thought. She sat on a cushion on the floor of the boat with her head on the thigh of this handsome young sailor, who now held the tiller. As she looked at him her arousal grew once again. Just the thought of how good the sex was made her want more of him. Somewhat against her will, she reached out and rubbed his crotch, excitedly watching the bulge grow.

Laurence smiled and said, “I wish we didn’t have to part so soon, I’d love to have you all night long!”

“Laurence, I wish that too!” Much more than he could possibly know.

“We’ll have to see what can be done about that then, won’t we?” he said, grinning.

Her rubbing had made him hard again. Laurence pointed his throbbing member at her anxiously, wanting relief. Viv pulled and stroked him tenderly. With one hand on the tiller, Laurence used the other to hold her ample breast, caressing it, and playing skilfully with her hardened nipple.

He then leaned forward and sucked hard on her nipple. The exquisite feeling made its way right down between her legs, and she was in need of him again. She put her hand underneath Laurence’s tight scrotum and squeezed gently. Then she placed the purple tip of his hard, heavily veined member to her lips and kissed it. She opened her mouth, and he anxiously penetrated her lips and beyond. She sucked on it, rolling her tongue around the head.

“Viv, you’re driving me mad! Stop a moment. Here, turn around. Let me take you from behind.”

He turned her around to expose her round, small butt to his gaze.

Viv pushed herself against his thighs. She felt his hardness press between her legs, prodding her moist lips. She pressed further against him, and his entire shaft entered.

“Oh God, it’s great,” Laurence said, “tight and hot!”

He seized Viv around the hips firmly and pushed in as far as he could go. She gasped. It hurt a little, stretched her, but pleasure soon took over. Reaching backward between her legs, she caressed the ridged skin of his scrotal sac gently, sharing his lust. Actually, she was mad with it. She jiggled up and down, savouring every second.

All too soon her orgasms came. She was now unable to move, her mind in another dimension. Laurence took up the movements again and pushed with renewed fury. He climaxed once more, exploding in pure animal lust.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

The bus came to a sharp halt and jerked Viv back to reality. It was her stop, and rising from her seat still disorientated, she stepped off the bus. It surprised her that this memory had come out of the blue, for this incident had occurred many years ago. This re-awakening of her past happiness happened occasionally, never before in public, but usually in her night dreams. The reality of it all shocked her too, and it took the ten-minute walk home to shake off the haze of the sensual memory. Her mind was in turmoil as it was impossible not to continue thinking about that tremendous time with Laurence.

As usual, depression hit her thinking of the mistake she possibly made by running away, just because something scared her. She ached now for Laurence to satisfy her again. By the time Viv reached her house, the memory had begun to fade. But, she was now determined to do something to get her life back on track. She had been celibate far too long and was determined to think of some way to find the right man. But, he had to be like Laurence.

This would be the start of many thrilling sad and unusual encounters. Life would never be the same again.




* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Chapter Three

Viv opened the front door feeling great relief to be home again, amongst her familiar comforts and odds and ends collected over the years. She was very proud of her little three-bedroom house, nestled off and away by itself in a secluded cul-de-sac. She had managed to purchase the house with the help of a friendly bank manager, who had fallen for her good looks and charm.

She loved the house, with its pastel-coloured walls, lilacs, purples, reds, pinks and blues. Even the clocks and banisters were painted just to provide bursts of colour wherever she went. Each room was a theme in itself as well. Functional, but with a purpose.

Viv suddenly realized that she had forgotten to do her shopping. She sighed, deciding to retrace her footsteps back to the newsagent and grocery store. It was a local family business that did very well as it stayed open twenty-four hours a day. It was located in a small precinct of shops she had walked past only a few moments ago. She only needed to stock up on a few items.

It usually was enjoyable walking by the various small shops, popping in here and there, to browse or make a small purchase of food. Viv knew all of the shopkeepers by name. It was good to go in and shoot the breeze with them. She was always interested in hearing the latest news and gossip in their lives.

Soon Viv was strolling from shop to shop. She could not help but notice the beautiful colour of the sky. It immediately took her mind back to that romantic encounter with Laurence. ‘Stop it!’ she scolded herself and instead tried counting the paving slabs and curb stones to keep her mind preoccupied elsewhere. Anything, to keep her thoughts off her sexual longing for the sexual partner she still desperately missed.

Viv arrived at the newsagent and quickly gathered together the things she needed. Coffee, milk, toilet paper, the usual mundane items one needed to get by. Whilst standing at the checkout, she noticed the store manager glance at her and smile. Apart from the usual greeting, he was too busy to stop for a chat.

On many previous occasions, Viv had also spoken with his wife. A nice enough woman, although frumpy. She looked like so many other women who stopped taking care of their looks after many years of marriage to the same man. Viv thought it might be nice to be married and living a nice, average life. Similar to the style this man and his wife enjoyed. Routine, with no chaos she supposed. The couple seemed happy enough.

As was the case with many men, he was not her type. She hankered for the tall, dark, muscular type. That why it was so surprising when her mind started to imagine herself alone with this man. This pleasant, sociable, but business-like newsagent, a local store owner. She imagined their bodies thrashing about together on some faraway beach while waves licked at their naked bodies.

Once again, she forced her mind back to the here and now. She paid, smiled courteously and left for the short walk back. When Viv arrived at her house for the second time, she felt like weeping. She had a decent job and nice, cosy home with its beautiful rattan and cane furniture. But deep down she was lonely and physically ached to find that elusive ‘Mr. Right.’ He probably did not exist, leastways not for her.

She had believed for a short period of time that Laurence might have been her ’special’ person. He had looks, the exact kind that excited her, and absolutely everything a woman could desire, including money. But there was still something missing, and she could not put her finger on it. Unless, it was due to her fear of his being too desirable.

Viv could not make a life with Laurence for another reason. He had to be absent a good deal of the time with his work, and she would have missed him far too much. It would have been unbearable to wait for his return. Especially, when she yearned so much for his touch, his kisses, oh, and all of it!

She still kept in touch with him. They exchanged the occasional letter, and she often promised to go with him on holiday. He now lived permanently in his villa near Grenada on the Southern coast of Spain. Viv often considered joining him, except she was afraid to have her feelings aroused and then perhaps have to leave him again.

The thought of whether or not she had made the right decision tortured her for years. Girls everywhere just threw themselves at Laurence, and she was afraid that one day he might be tempted. That would have broken her heart. In the end she broke off all physical contact, but retained the fantasy of him as her perfect lover.

Viv brought her thoughts back to the immediate problem. She appraised herself, knowing that men found her attractive, often making nuisances of themselves. Initially, she might enjoy their company but would soon tire of them, finding them boring. Inevitably, conversations turned into discussions about their material wealth. They were always trying to impress her with their acquisitions and powerful business positions. In effect, they hoped she would want to marry them and, unwittingly, become another possession. A new decorative acquisition to make them feel more ‘macho.’

What most men did not realize, though, was this type of discussion only made them come over as self-centred. Also, perhaps men appeared unattractive to her because she compared them to Laurence. Viv needed that ‘chemistry.’ The charm she saw in Gavvy, the man she had married on the rebound from Laurence, had a certain amount of what she needed. But his love of alcohol ruined that.

She had been celibate for so long now and knew there must be someone special out there. The question was, where and how to find him? Viv panicked for a moment. Could it be he was not out there at all, and if he were, would she ever meet him? If she found the near perfect man, would he like her? She hated these thoughts because they always left her mind in a mess.

Viv decided on a strong coffee and refreshing shower. Afterwards, draped in towels from head to foot, she sat quietly at her dressing table. Her eyes wandered around the bedroom and thoughts of changing the décor of her home re-surfaced. It needed ‘something.’ She would give the house a nice touch up, yes, that is what she would do.

As soon as there were mirrors she thought suitable, they would be added throughout the house to brighten everything up. That was all it needed, to make the place look much larger. A Mediterranean mural, to cover one of her walls in the lounge, would make it feel as if she were at the beach. Her mood began to lift as she reminded herself how lucky she really was.

She purchased and moved into the house just a few years after her divorce from an abusive alcoholic named Gavin. That was a horrible and prolonged experience. She had married Gavin at a relatively young, twenty-five years of age. He frequented the club where she worked as a dancer. This job came her way unexpectedly one evening, while out with friends at the club. The owner had invited her to dance there professionally. So, she did, for fun and to supplement her secretarial salary.

It was at the club where she first met Gavin, who appeared to be a charming man. Tall, very attractive with his blow-dried, blondish hair and muscular body. He was also a skilled fighter, and everyone feared him. She felt safe in his company and proud that he wanted her. After all, no one messed around with her while she was with this man, and that was a terrific feeling.

Viv believed she loved him at first. They married and moved into a large flat with a wonderful garden, preferring to stay in their home town of Cornwall to begin their life together. All their friends were nearby, and all hoped to move to Spain when they retired. It was the ’in’ thing to do. It was also Viv’s secret, knowing that Laurence was living in that country.

Gavin seemed to be so compatible with her, but soon after their marriage, his many dark, secretive sides were revealed to her. The first thing he made her do was give up dancing, so she went back to work full-time in an office. The second was not being able to go out with her girl friends. She had no physical or emotional freedom and soon felt like a prisoner.

Even though Gavin was a highly intelligent man, the effects of the drink changed him, dramatically. While some men became merry and silly with the drink, it turned Gavin irrational, jealous and his motives or actions difficult to comprehend. He also lived his life under the assumption that every man wanted his woman. Gavin instigated constant fights attacking any man, anywhere and at anytime. It almost turned her into a nervous wreck.

By the time she reached twenty-seven years of age, the marriage was over. The divorce had turned into a bitter experience. Gavin would not face the inevitable and let her go. Viv had heard that he was now drinking more heavily than ever. She feared this dark, evil side to his nature and had come to know it well. Her nerves were a mess if she went out shopping or to some of their favourite bistros, bars or restaurants.

If only she had seen his true nature before they married. Instead, she went through two years of hell first and then the exhausting, time-consuming divorce. Viv feared for her life the entire time. This experience made her fear another marriage. There was absolutely no way she wanted to suffer that kind of pain again. Neither did she feel able to trust another man, even if he seemed trustworthy. But Viv also knew that love had no rules and hoped to have a partner one day.

She remembered back to when she was ‘one of the crowd.’ There were so many fun dances and parties, with friends dropping by all the time. Well, sometimes it was inconvenient, but it was good to be popular. She frowned slightly remembering friends who came along with their seemingly endless troubles and depressions.

When Viv moved away from Cornwall, she lost touch with most of her friends. They all thought her mad to move as far away as London just to keep out of the way of her ex-husband, who continued to live in Cornwall. The truth was she needed to start a new life where he could not find her. Unfortunately, Gavin had become too friendly with some of her closest friends and could track her down, if she kept in touch with them.

Then on moving to London, Viv had found employment in a Lawyer’s office. She was not enamoured with the work and longed to do something more interesting. In the ensuing years, Viv only dinner-dated and was very proud of her independence, or so she thought. But sometimes, she really missed the closeness and smell of a man.

She loved the thought of cuddling up close at night. What great comfort it would give her, and how much better she would sleep with someone close by to offer his protection. Especially, someone she loved and who loved her back the same. It was only at these times when she became aware of the empty atmosphere of the house.

It lacked human synthesis. ‘If the right man did come along, he’d have to be very special,’ she thought sadly. ‘But if he did come along, and I ran away from him I could spoil the rest of my life because I made one bad mistake in the past and was unable to trust again.’

It was all too much to think about at the moment. Besides, she was hungry not having eaten all day, so perhaps it was her empty stomach that made her feel down right now. At the same time, the prospect of eating alone tonight took the edge off her hunger. As usual, she was a mix of emotions, all conflicting.

Viv sat down at the rattan table she loved so much. So proud that she had managed to hold onto this piece of furniture. She held a cup of coffee in one hand, the local newspaper folded in her lap. She gazed down at the front page but instead of the print she saw images of her life. It had taken a very long time for her to want to share her privacy, years in fact. She now began to yearn for a special man in her life again.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Chapter Four

There were no chances to meet a potential partner at work. Apart from the usual office boys with acne, the only other male was her boss. Besides not being her type, he was married, although nice as a person. The women who worked there were far too conventional for her tastes and they had nothing in common with her. As a result, she never socialized with them.

Viv still missed Laurence, and always tried to push him to the back of her mind. She had met him two years before Gavin, so it surprised her to only remember Laurence’s love-making. With Gavin it had turned sour so quickly that physical contact with him made her feel almost sick. There were no good memories there.

Her attention returned to the newspaper. She remembered a ‘Personal Ads’ column somewhere and glanced through until she found the right page. So many lonely people were advertising, and, unfortunately, she could identify with many of them. Everyone wanted to find love, happiness and, she thought to herself, ‘sex.’ After all, it was common in the morality of today, and a woman could admit to enjoying it at last.

People seemed to drift from one relationship to another far too casually. How was it even possible to really get to know each other any more? To develop a partnership, common goals or interests? As a result, those her age and older, who were unable to find a partner through conventional means, turned to other methods such as these.

She read, ‘PRETTY, GREEN-EYED MOTHER OF YOUNG GIRL, seeking a professional gentleman to share life with’... ‘RESPECTABLE, GOOD-LOOKING, solvent gentleman with GSOH, hoping to find soul-mate. Possible love and marriage?’

Viv tried to imagine herself meeting a stranger on a blind date. What if it was so unbearable that she wanted to leave before the evening was over? Besides, where would they go? She smiled. Was she really considering this seriously? Why not? It seemed unlikely to meet that someone special in her everyday life. That was most unlikely.

Viv knew she was a desirable, good-looking woman. Although nearly thirty-six, she certainly did not look her age. She maintained herself through rigorous exercise and good diet. She lived alone, so there were no hassles from a man to put up with who wanted fried food. As she read on, the number of advertisements surprised her. There were so many columns of print. Unfortunately, not a single person sounded interesting enough for her to reply to. But, the idea of writing her own advertisement intrigued her..

‘How would it go?’ she thought. A little voice inside her head said, ‘SEX-STARVED, VOLUPUOUS, DARK-HAIRED BEAUTY, NEEDS A MAN, IMMEDIATELY, IF NOT SOONER!’ She laughed aloud. That would certainly attract some replies!

Viv was about to discard the newspaper and make herself another coffee, when she noticed advertisements for a ‘MARRIAGE DATING AGENCY.’ One in particular caught her eye. ‘THE DANDY LYONS MARRIAGE AGENCY.’ Such a corny name but it stood out from the others. She noted the address and telephone number just in case she might prefer to give them a try. Actually, in the hope that she would find the courage to contact them.

Later on that evening Viv dwelled on her loneliness again. If she was serious about finding her ‘man,’ then it had to be achieved through the proper channels. At least to try the safest method of meeting men. She wondered about the various alternatives, finally settling on the idea of one of the dating agencies. That must be the safest way as the agency surely had a system to weed out the ‘weirdo’s’ and ‘undesirables.’ A reputable agency would have checks and balances in place. But, still, she could not help feeling sceptical.

The following day after finishing work at lunchtime she made her way to the dating agency. This particular agency, ‘The Dandy Lyons Marriage Agency,’ impressed her not only due to the memorable name, but since it advertised dating for the ‘discriminating’ single with the intention of marriage. It was not just for meeting sexual partners..

‘I’m certainly discriminating enough,’ thought Viv. ‘After all, I don’t trust any men!’ She decided this agency was better too, since it offered personalized consultations and videos of its members.

Viv smiled, remembering her useless attempt to phone the agency that morning. The person on the other end of the line seemed helpful enough. However, Viv soon found it difficult to say anything sensible and confused everyone, herself included. In the end, she hung up the phone in fits of laughter. It might be easier to see them in person, and she hoped her voice would not be recognized on her arrival.

She arrived at the address, without having broken the ice, although her courage arrived slightly later than she did. The agency was located in a relatively new, almost all-glass building. It stood out prominently with its shiny green glass windows that reflected the bright sunshine on this particular day. No way would she admit trying to phone earlier. She hovered outside the building for several minutes, trying to look as if she had lost her way. She glanced inside occasionally.

At first, she wondered, ‘Why go through with this?’ Then she envisioned yet another lonely Christmas, sipping a soft drink and only herself for company. She imagined looking at her few Christmas cards, on the mantelpiece above the burning fire. This image was all she needed for the extra push to enter the building. Putting on an air of confidence, she walked to the security desk and signed in. She was then directed over to the shining bank of elevators that led to the agency and her true destiny, she hoped.

Viv entered and pushed the button for the 5th floor where the agency was located, then listened to the gentle ding ding as it lumbered up the levels. On arrival at her floor, she took a deep breath and walked into the agency. The receptionist was an attractive lady seated behind a computer at a work station. Viv imagined the lonely men who confronted her each day. They must fancy her like mad and hope, through the agency, to find someone just like her.

The woman looked up and gave Viv a warm smile, which was returned.

“Hi, I need your help,” Viv said nervously. “I’m interested in using your services.”

“Yes, Mam,” the receptionist responded whilst handing her a clipboard and pen, along with some forms to fill out. She then pointed to a chair, where Viv could sit down in privacy to answer the questions. She made herself comfortable and examined the forms. They requested the usual information, such as name, address, telephone number, date of birth and place of employment.

Viv aimlessly filled out each line and thought perhaps she made a big mistake in coming here. Her attention wandered and she looked up, noticing a dark-haired man with striking blue eyes, who observed her from an adjoining office. He smiled for an instant, then returned to his writing. Her heart lifted slightly, and she felt a tingling sensation in her lower belly.

‘What a gorgeous man,’ she thought. ‘He looks so much like Lawrence!’

Viv finished with the forms returning them to the receptionist behind the desk, who accepted them with another happy smile. She arose from her workstation and disappeared. Several minutes later, an even more attractive woman greeted her. She was dressed in a white blouse with the top two buttons undone showing a slight bit of cleavage. The woman wore a black form-fitting skirt, with high heeled shoes. The black leather shone as she stepped into the reception area to meet Viv.

“Hi, nice to meet you. It’s my pleasure to be able to help. My name is Dandy Lyons, please call me Dandy,” said the woman. “Come with me into my office,” she said, motioning Viv to follow her into the confines of the agency’s private rooms.

Dandy escorted Viv to a rather large space, which had a glass wall that allowed a good view of the workstations dotting the agency’s general work space.

“Please have a seat, Viv,” said Dandy. She motioned for her to sit down on the big, comfortable settee, while she positioned herself behind her desk.

“How can we help you?” she asked, her smiling face gleaming.

Viv took a few seconds to find the right words. Her voice did not sound anywhere near as confident as she hoped.

“I need a man,” she stuttered, realizing how desperate that must have sounded. Regaining her composure she said, “I mean I’m looking for a man, er.. special man, a true companion and partner.” Once Viv got all the words out, she felt her face burn with embarrassment. She had not meant to be so obvious.

“For yourself?” Dandy inquired.

“Er, yes,” Viv replied nervously, confused with this extremely strange answer.

Dandy replied, “I only asked because some people come in here on behalf of friends or relatives, or, at least they prefer to say so.”

She continued, “We have a personal profile questionnaire that we’d like you to fill out, so we can more specifically determine the exact type of man best suited for you. Would you like me to ask you questions, or would you rather have some time to read them and then think about the answers? We can talk afterwards. There’s plenty of time, and absolutely no rush,” Dandy offered, trying to put Viv at ease.

Viv glanced at the attractive man seated behind the desk in the next office, separated only by the glass partition. He must have sensed her eyes on him as he looked up almost immediately and smiled at her. She blushed and smiled back. Could he possibly be filling in a questionnaire as well? Why would anyone with his looks need to waste time filling out questionnaires to find a woman? Perhaps there was something wrong with this guy? Then she remembered her situation and what had brought her in here.

“Oh, yes thanks,” she answered, reaching to take the offered form, “I’ll fill it in.”

The questions were no problem at all, until she got to the ones regarding qualities in a man that she found most desirable. She looked up asking Dandy for help.

Viv cleared her throat. “Well I’m not really sure that I have a clear picture of the man I’d like to meet,” she said.

At the same time, she visualized herself and the man in the adjacent office entangled in a passionate embrace. Their half-dressed bodies on the desk and in the heat of lovemaking, with papers and files flying all over the office. ’What on earth is wrong with me?’ She asked herself.

Dandy smiled, “Think of the qualities you admire most, take your time. Also put down the qualities you have to offer.”

Viv glanced once again at the man behind the glass partition. This time Dandy’s eyes followed hers and she gestured towards the man with the sexy blue eyes to come in and join them.

“I met my husband through a marriage agency,” Dandy said, pointing to the man who was now rising from his chair in the adjacent office.

“That’s one of the main reasons we decided to start up one of our own. Now you can see it’s very possible to find the right man. Hopefully, you’ll find your ideal partner just as I did!”

When Viv realized that the man whom she had already started to fantasize about was married and, to the woman seated in front of her, she felt ill. The thought of her ideal man not being available caused something inside Viv to collapse. She tried not to show her disappointment as she handed back the questionnaire. Refraining from looking in her eye, Viv hoped that Dandy was not a mind reader.

“Are you interested in membership for three months, six months or the full year?” Dandy asked.

Viv felt very confused, in more ways than one. Perhaps they were not happily married, and he wanted to escape a bad marriage. Maybe he was interested in taking her away from everything. How she wished that were true.

The fees were discussed, and Dandy waited for Viv to decide on which membership package she preferred.

“I’d prefer to start with a three-month membership and see how things pan out,” said Viv.

Dandy seemed pleased, then asked, “How would you like to pay then? Cash or cheque?”

Viv wondered if it were too late to back out. After deciding it was, she paid in cash and was given a receipt.

Dandy handed Viv a file and said, “One of the men in here might be suitable. If not, don’t worry, we’ve plenty more for you to look at. New potentials come in regularly and are added to the list.”

As Dandy spoke, Viv studied the woman who had won Mr. Lyons’ heart. She was a good match for him Viv had to admit. With her clear blue eyes, large, firm breasts and auburn hair. At a guess, her age could be late thirties, although she appeared more mature.

Viv heard a chair being moved in front of her and looked up to see Mr. Lyons standing there. Her heart lurched almost out of her mouth. He was even better looking close up, and his body was just as good. So similar to Laurence.

‘Oh, no! He’s definitely the one I want and he‘s not available!’ she thought, hardly able to catch her breath.

He held out his hand, and introduced himself as Daniel. She took his hand and knew her heartaches were about to start again.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

(TO BE CONTINUED......)

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Copyright ©2003 Donni-Jay De-Ville

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