Lost In Paradise

[afternooner]

The Sun raised it's lazy head up out of the ocean as if reluctant to start a new day. Most of the residents of the Island of Tahari did likewise going about their morning activities slowly and quietly.. fetching water from the local well for their morning tea coming and going from the hot water spring where they bathed. Life was slow and quiet except for an occasional scampering of naked children across the village Plaza, and the bleating of the goats behind the grass houses scattered around it, waiting to be milked.

Darwin stretched, yawning. He glanced through the open door of his house and looking down toward the new part of town reminded himself he had a job today, but not until afternoon as that was when the tide came in, the only time that the tourist boat could enter the harbor to bring this months travelers to the beach. They would then change places with the tourists that had spent the last month here and next month when the tide was in, leave again.

Darwin was looking forward to a new group as the old couple he was assigned to him this last month, though they were cordial enough and tipped him well, were not very exciting company. They hadn't wanted to hike or camp so he had no chance to show off his knowledge of the Islands most unusual features it's beautifull warm waterfalls and mineral springs deep in the interior of the Island. He had wanted to take them fishing and diving in the crystal waters of the lagoon, or sailing in his sailboat. but they were content to sit and watch the ocean, play cards and sip drinks at the cabaret.

So his job had been an easy one, just seeing that they were escorted to the various cremonines and event that were orcastrated for their enjoyment.

They slept late giving him time to read and paint a little as was his nature.

He looked out to see if none of the elders was around and seeing no one grabbed a towel and streaked across the plaza, toward the hot springs pool in back of the village hall.

Naked he plunged headlong into it and coming up spouted out a mouthfull of water at a couple of other bathers who had come ahead of him.

It was considered proper to bath together naked, as the elders considered cleanliness next to godliness, something the missionariries had taught them years ago.

They had continued the ritual not so much in fear of god, for they considered religion rather frivolous, but because it was so much fun. The thing that wasn't proper however was streaking across the plaza naked which for Darwin was a lot of fun too.

He wasn't ashamed of his body and in fact he was rather proud. He was taller than most of the Islanders 183 centimeters and weighed 91 k.g.s
He had broad shoulders, jet black hair and dark brown eyes .He looked down at his midsection and grinning thought that part of him was bigger also easily 3 cms longer than most.

Grabbing the common soap bar he scrubbed himself clean and jumping out sprinted back to his hut.

He dressed in his usual cutoff jeans and went for his morning walk.


OOC: This thread is closed for DeliciousMaiden and myself, please enjoy reading it.
AN

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

“..mais.. maman.. e t’en prie… viens… ici avec moi..?”
Catherine’s voice had pleaded down the phone, begging her mother to forget her plans and come on holiday with her as originally planned.

“Il fault que j’aille ma petite…” returned her mothers soft voice.. “Je n’ai pas de choix…”
Catherine sighed in frustration. If only she were face to face with her mother, she were sure she could persuade her not to abandon their holiday plans.. well.. postpone them. How long would all this take anyhow?

Her reverie was broken by her father’s stern voice as he took possession of the phone.
“Catherine! Don’t be unfair to your mother. She has to go to Paris and be by Uncle Bertrand’s side. Think how it would look if his illness got worse and something happened without your mother being at his bedside.”

“Oncle Bertrand..”… it was not as if she, Catherine knew him. Her mother was merely a distant relative, but a wealthy man. As ever her father was more concerned with appearances and doing the right thing… and the holiday… the holiday planned to culminate in her 21st birthday celebrations was to be delayed!

Catherine had sat there, staring at the hotel phone. She was disappointed and frustrated, surrounded by her newly unpacked cases.. She could do nothing but stay there alone for two weeks or so, until duty was done and normal service could be resumed!

That had been two weeks ago.

Once again she found herself staring at the recently hung up phone. This time, however she was angry, well… absolutely livid! How dare they – he - organise her life like this?

The past two weeks had gone remarkably quickly. The staff at the hotel knew Catherine and her family. They were more than regulars, this was a home from home. Her parents had built up a wide circle of socially desireable friends over the years they had been holidaying there. As in London, Catherine attended functions and social gatherings, both formal and informal.

Catherine usually enjoyed the social whirl and was always escorted by her parents. Her life, although she didn’t recognise it was very sheltered and her acquaintances were always carefully selected. Her parents' absence at the beginning of this holiday did not deter their set from extending invitations to Catherine, in fact now out of the dominating influence of her dear papa… some of the more romantically inclined began introducing her to .. interesting and eligible young men. This amused Catherine highly, knowing her father would be outraged, had he known… but of course he did not.


At least, that was what she thought. How could her father know what was happening so many miles away?

She looked at the half empty hotel room. The bulk of her clothes were in a suitcase and being whisked away to a new destination, but she was damned if she were going to meekly follow them!

Finally tiring of the parties and matchmaking and meaningful looks and the polite small talk and lack of freedom, Catherine had decided to visit one of the charming Islands that could be visited from the mainland where she was now located. She’d become trapped and felt that the never ending round of friends and outings had become..welll..claustrophobic. Making sure not to mention her plans to anyone and intending to leave a note for the Hamiltons to be delivered at the last possible moment, she had booked a week’s trip to one of the charming islands daring for once to break free and seek the solitude that had so far been missing in her life.

What had gone wrong, she would never really know. Needless to say that the Hamilton’s had found out about her plans and contacted her father immediately. Following her father’s instructions, they had taken it upon themselves to cancel her booking and had just called to..politely, but firmly inform her that her luggage was now enroute to their villa and that she was expected to follow it, without delay. For the rest of the time, until her parents arrived, she was expected to move in with them… for her comfort and to obviously to avoid any further silly impulses.

She kicked the footstool in annoyance, then wished she hadn't. Sitting down and rubbing her ankle she remained resolute!

There was no way she was going to meekly follow her father’s instructions. She wracked her brains for an alternative. The Hamiltons were nice, but she was almost 21 for God’s sake and just for once she wanted to do something for herself and NOT her parents!

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Heading west Darwin avoided the new part of the Island of Tahara. This afternoon would be soon enough for him to tackle the hustle and bustle of the tourist area. This morning he would follow the white sandy beach that disappeared out into the sparkling waters of the lagoon.

Surounded by jutting rocks that formed a barrier from the tumultous ocean beyond, it shimmered in the morning sun the coral bottom blending it's deep pink hue into the crystal clearness of the surface.

The tide was in and a narrow channel of water flowed from the sea into the harbor. It was through this channel that the small boats transfered passengers from the cabin cruisers anchored beyond. Provisions and supplies along with the usual 30 or so passengers were shuttled to the beach as the tide slowly went out. Black rocks like sentinels gradually rose up blocking the lagoon for another month until the tide came in again and covered them.

Turning his gaze back to the beach Darwin saw it disappear in the distance as it gave way to steep cliffs of brown rock interspersed with bright green vegaeation clinging vicariously to its surface defying gravity.

He thought about the rest of the Islands circumference and he knew it to be the same untill it came around to this lagoon again. He'd sailed around it seveal time, his sturdy sailboat braving the waves that crashed against its base. no where was there a place to dock a boat in high tide or in low. He reached the point where the two met, the white sandy beach and the brown rocky wall and then retraced his steps to the village.

It was almost meal time when he entered the plaza and his mother, stirring the communal pot, looked up She shook her head and clucked her tongue and Darwin instantly remembered he'd forgotten to milk the goat this morning.

"Sorry mama he softly spoke kissing his mother on the cheek." he loked at her weathered face and saw the beauty that she maintained since she was his age. She never seemed to change over the years, as was true about the natives of this Island. Some tourists joked, "it was the water" and indeed the water seemed to have medicinal qualities because it came warm in places, heated by the rumbling vocano that stood tall and commanding in the Islands center, occasionally spurting out a burst or two of dust. one such place was the village pool that they bathed in every day.

"I won't forget again"

Darwin said cheerfully He tried so hard to please his mother since his fater had been lost at sea six years ago and as he had no brothers or sisters felt a responsiblity to take care of her. But she seemed content to take care of him instead perhaps it gave meaning to her life without a husband. so their life together was smooth and unpretensious. The only rif between them was her desire for him to find a mate and give her grand babies. She would say her eyes twinkling in mischief

'Your twenty two, it's time you chose a mate you've sampled enough of them to know which one suits you best."

Darwin blushed, his mother was blunt at times and there were no secrets on this small island. yes he had done his share of sampling.

Traditional courting, the missionaries had called it but little did they know how the natives had interpeted this custom and how they celebrated it. for all these years. Yes Darwin thought they would be turning over their graves if they knewjust what the traditional courting was all about.
Getting over his initial embarrasament he retorted And I suppose you didn't sample before you met my father It was his mothers turn to blush and then clearing her throat replied.

"Eat your soup, you monster, you".

She reached up and tosseled his hair..

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

She sighed and crossed to the wardrobe. She looked through and noticed that her best clothes, the ones she looked her best in and her formal clothes were all packed in and on their way to the Hamiltons. Looking through drawers and wardrobes Catherine noticed that it was the simpler clothes that she had intended keeping behind, jeans, shorts, simple skirts, light blouses and comfortable bikinis and swimsuits, nothing that would impress, all comfortable, non-label items.

She pulled out a holdall and stuffed the garments with her towels, toiletries and other basics, which littered the room. Anything of value, jewellery in particular was in the hotel safe. Anything, which was for public wear, was en-route to chez Hamiltons… and the wardrobe she was left with was simple, if comfortable and could not be warn within sight of the social set her family had cultivated over the years!

As she stuffed the clothes into a holdall and rucksack, Catherine noticed a leaflet which fluttered down out of the folder giving information about the hotel facilities and services. She bent to pick it up and stopped to read. Catherine sighed as she read the information about the Island of Tahari. The place sounded idyllic, a haven… she stood momentarily in a dream, if only she could escape to somewhere like that….

Just as she was about to discard the pamphlet her eyes lit upon the timetable. There seemed very few boats, monthly it seemed, although Catherine assumed that the returning boats would run more often, allowing the visitors flexibility to return to the mainland. She looked closer and noticed that a boat was leaving today..in half an hour’s time in fact!

Did she dare..?… Would she have the nerve to repeat her planned escape? If she went just for a week, that would give her time to sweet talk the Hamiltons on her return and to charm her dear father when he eventually arrived..and it would be her birthday, even father could not remain angry with her on such an occasion – her 21st!
Yes..she would risk it!

An hour later, Catherine was watching the mainland receding slowly into the distance. She had sent her note, as originally planned informing the Hamiltons that she would be back by the end of the week. She had disgarded her last designer outfit and clad in a simple cotton skirt and light white cotton blouse, sunhat on head and shade in place, Catherine sat anonymously at the back of the boat bidding goodbye to the tedium of her life and looking forward to a simplistic retreat, much more isolated than she had hoped before.

The sun was warm, the air freshly aromatic as the tang of the sea invaded her nostrils. Her dark hair broke lose of its elasticated restraint. She took down the elaborate chignon and pulled her ebony brown hair up into a high pony tail. Catherine did not realise that without the sheen of sophisticated costume she looked much younger.
Her unpretentious clothing and with her youthful optimism as she turned her eyes away from the mainland straining ahead to glimpse the island she would soon be inhabiting combined to give an impression of a sixteen or seventeen year old. She laughed suddenly imagining the consternation of the Hamiltons and then frowned as she imagined the inevitable phonecall to her father to report her escapade.

Oh well.. thought Catherine. If she were to pay for this later, she might as well enjoy her freedom whilst she had it! She turned her face into the wind as the boat raced towards the island. She could not have imagined the fate which awaited her there as fate sped her ever nearer….

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

"Welcome to the Island of Tahari, Darwin announced I am here to see that your stay is comfortable and enjoyable."

He cleared his throat and winked at the audience of naked children at his feet, they just giggled of course and went on with their play.

He didn't need the practice, but he liked to start his afternoon out before he left for the new part of the village entertaining his little cousins.

He had started guiding when he was ten, well not guiding really, mostly carrying bags and fetching towels at the pool, opening doors and just being handy. He worked for tips then and did quite well as he was a handsome child and his wide smile and twinkling eyes charmed young and old alike.

He had saved his money for it was his dream to have his own sailboat one day.

That day had arrived and at 18 when he had become a fullfleged employee of the tourist service. he had put the finishing touches on his boat and christened it the Beagle, after the ship that had brought the explorer and evolutionist, Charles Darwin, that he had been named after,to the island of Tahari centuries ago.

Looking at the sun now high in the sky he got up and went into his hut. he put on a clean white shirt over his broad back. buttoned it, leaving the top open, showing off his dark chest hairs and pulled a tght pair of jeans over his hips. He smilled thinking about his mother teasing him about being to big for his britches, but he liked the feel of denim, tight against his body.He combed his hair and steppping outside, made his way across the plaza and down the path to town.

He passed the shops and resturants that crowded the main street. that led to the piers. Looking out accross the lagoon he saw the first boat enter the harbor, guided by the canoes that had gone out to meet it. The first boat would hold the new group of tourist and be followed by the others, containing supplies and provisions for the island.

They would have to hurry unloading as before nightfall the tide would go out again and they would need to be out of the bay by then.

Near the beach The Tahari Hilton stood 18 stories tall facing the sea. The home away from home for the incomming tourists.

Darwin wondered sometimes why they bothered, they spent most of their month being wined and dined and panpered, just like they did in their homes back in London or Paris or where ever they came from. Once in a while some would venture out to stroll down the beach or go snorkeling in the lagoon, some even chose to hike into the interior of the island and explore the mountainous volcano area.

Darwin crossed his finger hoping he would get just that type of guest or guests this time. Maybe even someone that would go sailing in his boat.

In fact he had a plan. He had been working for the service long enough now so they would let him have first choice who he would guide for. If he just could make a good choice, perhaps this month would bring something new and exciting to his life.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine gasped as the boat made its way slowly into the harbour of the island. She had not imagined a place as beautful.. so scenic.. unspoiled... as the boat rounded the headland she frowned seeing the multi-story Hilton climbing skywards....

She shamelessly eavesdropped on her fellow passengers, exclaiming about its splendour, comfort, the facilities and that it was the *only* place to stay.
"Ohhh.. zut... " thought Catherine smiling at the childhood expletive... the last thing she wanted was to be recognised... and she wouldn't be dressed for the Hilton..sure she had money enough.. and accounts daddy couldn't stop even if he wanted to .. and to be sure she had a good amount of cash with her.. easily enough for the week she would be away... with luck she could return jsut before her birthday.. convince the Hamiltons..somehow.. and all would be sweetness and light.. well no... it wouldn't.. HE would know.. but hell she wasn't going to think of that now, she thought irritably. As long as she was back for the big birthday bash.. then it would be ok...

She sighed as she glanced at the hotel an turned her back resolutely on it to look out at the wilder and unspoiled areas of coast line apparent in the opposite direction. Either way, she would have to find some information so she could stay at somewhere much less pretentious for the week....

She smiled.... as finally the boat drew into the shallows... her eyes danced with expectation.. despite her suppressed concern...

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

As the boat headed in to the pier Darwin watched expectantly. His face fell as he saw the usual dressed to the hilt dowagers and the fancy pants men. They all looked expectantly toward the hotel, as if they could'nt wait to get to their rooms and vegetate.He searched in vain for a face that may have some zest for life some thirst for adventure in it. Smeone with ther eyes cats toward the water or the mountains.

He saw her standing in awe oblivious of the other travelers pushing to get off the boat he gaze roamed freely across the blue lagoon up into the mist veiled mountains as if they were calling her.

As the crowd dispersed he could see her more clearly she was obvioulsy alone and Darwis heart skipped a beat, exactly why he didn't know it just sort of happened. He shook his head as if to clear his thoughts and noticing her casual dress thought, should I pick this one. She seems so young and innocent.

It might be fun to show her around the island though. He didn't have a younger sister maybe it would be fun to pretend she was and he could just enjoy her company feeling that way She was walking down the gangplank when he noticed her natural beautyIf she was just a girl, she certainly had the air of a mature woman inside her youthfull body.

He straightened up his shirt pulling the top together and buttonng it properly. He tugged his jeans down so they wern't so tight against his crotch and steped on the dock.

My name is Darwin , he extended his hand and seeing her eyes dancing in expectation, forgot the rest of his speech and stood there awestruck.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine stood balanced in the back of the boat looking around her and wondering why it was she had never ventured away from the mainland before... though she knew the answer was because it wasn't expected, or civilised, or the place to be seen. She let the other passengers disembark before her. They seemd in a hurry to get back to the comforts of a hotel. The Hilton would be very popular that evening... but she.. had no one to meet, nowhere to go. She smiled as the thought hit her consciousness.. total freedom, at least for a week..this would be a true holiday!

Drawing her eyes reluctantly away from the mountains and lagoon, Catherine pulled herself along with her one suitcase and one rucksack out of the boat and stood looking round, undecided... she smiled softly as she saw the native children dashing around showing off for the newcomers, she knew she would need some direction, but was in no hurry and stood, enjoying the sight...


As she looked up again, tearing her gaze away from the cheeky children, she saw him coming towards her. A handsome native man, about her age she guessed, casually dressed in shirt and jeans. She watched as he advanced steadily towards her, yet her eyes opened in suprise when he stopped in front of her...


"My name is Darwin .."
Catherine took the extended his hand in her cool grip, her hand though not really petite was swallowed up in his... She looked at Darwin, wondering if he was going to try to sell her something or if he was going to ask to carry her bags to the hotel..

She waited. His gaze seemed fixed on her and she returned his look steadily. She stood there looking at the speechless young man and wondered if he knew enough English to continue. Taking pity on him, she spoke clearly but gently...

"Hello Darwin. How nice to meet you. My name is Catherine."
She smiled hoping he would understand that she was friendly, if nothing else.

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

" Hello Darwin , my name is Catherine."

He heard her but he still couldn't get any words out . And he didn't know why. Young girls even ones as obviously attractive and naturally beguiling as this one, didn't usually affect him this way. He looked off toward the ocean and took a deep breath then returning to face her trying not to think about how atractive she was, he began his prepared speech.

Good afternoon ms... he glanced hastily at his list of arrivals Catherine who.. lt's....let me see... he mumbled and then looking up, seeing her grin he grined to and the ice was broken.

Hellow Catherine.Welcome to our island. Our custom here is to greet each guest personally and bestow upon them a gift.

He brought his hand up holding a small basket woven of soft brown reeds. In the basket were the usual brocures describing the island, a short history and the next months itinerary.

His other hand reached into the basket and pulled out a leather braided cord, a circled loop that had at one end, inside a looser braid, a small sea shell about the size of a small hens egg. The shell peeking out between the braids was a soft flesh color with dark brown circular streaks. The open side was flesh colored also but turned to coral and then to deep pink diasppearing inside its narrowing interior.

Darwin placed the loop around Catherines neck and said softly.

This shell we call Tahari and it contains the spirit of our island. If you hold it tight you will feel it become warm in your hand. That is the spirit of Tahari and it's there to give you comfort if you are afraid or alone. hold it and believe in it and it will never fail you.

Besides being your greeter, I am also your guide for the month if you wish .Tthe island is very beautiful but we want to make sure our guests are safe as welll as comfortable so the tourist dept has assigned me to help you enjoy your stay.

For now, because you've had a long trip I will see you to your room and take care of your luggage. he motions her towards the hotel.

Has the rest of your luggage been delivered to the hotel allready he says as he looks at her small suitcase and ruck sack.

Surely she has more he thinks most of the tourists here have several bags as tehy are staying for a month.


But he shrugs his shoulders as she nods no and follows behind her towards the hotel.

More at ease now he muses about her. she looks to be sixteen or so. she's very attractive and he finds himself attracted to her but he tells himself if he thought of her like a younger sister it would be better for her and him and the dept. No problem he thinks. They probably will have a great time and secretly he hopes her interests in the island are more than just to stay in the hotel.

Why is she alone ? and not dressed like most of the women who come here? he has all these questions to ask but now they are at her hotelroom door and she has opened it, he brings the bags inside and turns to go

Looking back he smiles and says. Tomorrow if you wish we can go pick sea shells along the shore.The tide will be out and it's great fun to see what wonders the sea has brought us during the night but we must start early before the gulls beat us to the best. Meet me in the lobby at sunrise he closes the door behind him and is gone

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

She smiled at the young man’s continued silence. Finally he managed to speak and she was surprised at the fluency of his English.

”Good afternoon ms... lt's....let me see... “ she saw his discomfort and knew as she had booked so late, her name would not be on his list. She had just booked passage over – a return journey and had yet to organise accommodation. She grinned at him as he looked up from his confusion and was pleased to see him grin back.

”Hello Catherine. Welcome to our island. Our custom here is to greet each guest personally and bestow upon them a gift.”

She was about to stop him and insist that she wasn’t actually supposed to have the facility of a tour guide when he pulled out the basket holding a bunch of brochures and leaflets, doubtless about the island. She held out her hand to accept this. As she did so his other hand drew out the braids with the shell centrepiece. It was exquisite. Her smile broadened in pleasure as she saw the intricacy of the work. She stood knew she should say something, but was enchanted when Darwin placed the hoop around her neck and softly recited the history of the adornment;

”This shell we call Tahari and it contains the spirit of our island. If you hold it tight you will feel it become warm in your hand. That is the spirit of Tahari and it's there to give you comfort if you are afraid or alone. Hold it and believe in it and it will never fail you.”

Unconsciously as she listened to the story she allowed her hand to wrap itself around the shell unaware of his eyes on her as she heard his words… promising that if the precious object were held it would not fail her. He continued his welcome speech as she reflected on the story she had just heard, she expected the islanders would have many of these quaint traditions and superstitions. His words then broke her musings.

”Besides being your greeter, I am also your guide for the month if you wish… “
She did not hear the rest of the words as she started. A month.. but she was only staying a week. He definitely had his lists mixed up, poor man she thought sympathetically.

She brought her attention back to him in time to hear him enquire about her luggage;.
“Has the rest of your luggage been delivered to the hotel already?”
Catherine searched for the words to explain her predicament, but contented herself by shaking her head to indicate that her meagre baggage was actually all the luggage she had.

With a friendly smile, Darwin picked up the case and rucksack and, much to Catherine’s consternation, began to head towards the hotel.

Mutely she followed him. Embarrassed by his attention, knowing that for once she had not enlisted the assistance of someone to co-ordinate her escape. In fact, she thought to herself, this young man, though affable enough was not really the type of person she wants to hook up with on this holiday. He appeared to her far too organised and schedule-driven!

Catherine sighed as Darwin obtains a key to “her” room and led the way to it. She smiled softly, thinking; “He’s sure good at his job and no doubt good at organising the idle rich, father definitely would approve of his efficiency,” but she did not want that kind of assistance this time.

Darwin opened the room and carefully brought her bags inside and turned to go;

“Tomorrow if you wish we can go pick sea shells along the shore. The tide will be out and it's great fun to see what wonders the sea has brought us during the night but we must start early before the gulls beat us to the best. Meet me in the lobby at sunrise …”

Again the friendly grin was repeated as he slipped silently out of the room, closing the door behind him.

Catherine stood in the room, her two humble pieces of luggage at her feet. Wow.. she had sure been railroaded there! She looked round. No she did not want to stay here.

She smiled thinking of the eagerness of the young man. He was kind and willing, but she could have done without all that. She frowned trying to decide. Could she get a room elsewhere? She could hardly ask at the hotel for alternative accommodation!

Irritated, she made a decision: She would go and see what was what and if necessary make a proper booking for the room she had been allocated. She was sure that Darwin would be well on his way by now, she did not want to offend him or let him think she was ungrateful, but she was resolved to stay no longer than just one night in this plush home from home.

As she rode down in the lift, she was determined to stick to her original plan.. one night at the most and, if she could possibly manage it, she would be leaving this hotel before she even unpacked.

She walked down to the reception, painfully aware of the simplicity of her clothing in comparison to the outfits she saw all around her. She giggled, knowing that she was usually one of the well off, over-dressed elite. Despite her modest attire, Catherine walked with ease and grace across the foyer and ran the bell confidently. This was her week away and she would spend it in exactly the way she wanted…

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Puzzled Darwin scratched his head as he walked down the six flights of stairs, not even considering the lift. It gave him some time to think, to separate all the confusing feelings he was having.

He thought back to when he first greeted his new guest.

He repremanded himself for choking up and then going on like some sort of automobile salesman trying to convince her she was going to have a great time here.

Then he thought about the way she was dressed not like the other guests and the fact that she was so young and obviously alone. Like a lost kitten who needed protection and guidance. He formed a mental picture of her in his mind. She had looked so expectantly at him at first like she needed a friend. And then as he went on with his speech, she seemed to become confused or rather, distracted, like she was thinking of something else, some other concern that she had. She had seemd touched by his gift but not interested in the brocures and other things in the basket. She had merely nodded to him about the baggage and spoke not a single word or even looked at him as they went to the hotel. Not a thankyou or even a smile when her left. It was his fault of course he had been so caught up in his professionalism that he had forgot his feelings and didn't even consider hers. most guests wouldn't have cared but somehow he knew she was different from most guests.

He thought of how she looked when she held the Tahari shell wanting to trust it. The shell would not fail her, but Darwin had.

He stopped on the landing of the third floor and looked out the window towards the sea. It had always calmed him watching the waves gently caress the beach. Tomorrow morning this beach would be a flurry of activity. the gulls competing with the children of the island for shells and other treasures.

Oh god Darwin gasped the morning What if she wasn't there in the foyer tomorrow. Somehow he knew he needed to do something about this situation he felt he had created some how he must start over and get it right this time.

He knew what he had to do and he ran the rest of the way down the stairs. First he must find out her lat name so that he could show her the respect she deserved and then he must ring her room and request permission to see her, not in the morning but tonight. oh lord, he was being professional again. He grinned what was wrong with just being himself he thought. He rushed into the foyer to the desk. He stopped suddenly. as ahead of him he saw the image that had been in his mind. In a simple white skirt a cotton blouse and her dark brown hair in a pony tail. He stepped up behind her just as she was about to ring the bell. and said softly.

Catherine, we need to talk.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

She looked around.. typical she thought no one around when you needed assistance and then she thought of the hell her father would pay if he found a reception desk unattended. Either way, she wasn't exactly in a hurry... she put out her hand to ring the bell to call for attention.

"Catherine, we need to talk..."
She jumped out of her skin and whirled round expecting her father or the Hamilitons or someone all ready to drag her off back to the mainland. Her frightened eyes met Darwin's. Her expression changed to confusion, wondering what he was still doing there and then to relief as she smiled wryly at her irrational fear..

"Darwin..."! She spoke breathlessly, colour slowly returning to her previously drained cheeks... "God.. you scared me..."
She added needlessly, without explaining the reason for her fear.

She took a deep steadying breath and tried to organise her thoughts rationally...
"You... you want to... talk...?"
She enquired.... confused... hoping it wasn't part two of the sales talk... she hadn't realised how tense she was until he had suprised her.. no.. scared the living dayliights out of her!

Her hand reached to touch the Tahari shell... her hand shaking slightly as she lowered her eyes not wanting to embarrass herself or him, but wanting to get it all straight. .. to explain... Damn.. another complication to sort... she thought... how she wished she could just... get away...

She raised her eyes slowly to Darwin, unaware of the unshed tears showing there. She shook her head impatient with herself, stupid shows of emotions weren't really her ... idiot.. she chided herself...

Turning on a bright smile, though in truth not actuallly hiding her true emotions from Darwin's perceptive eyes she spoke hesitantly...

"...alright... we can talk... ?"

She waited offering him an opening to say what he needed to before she began her own explanations, despite herself she felt curious about what this young man still wanted to tell her... no talk he had said.."we need to talk" ... what did "they" have to talk about?
Unconsciously, she slowly turned the Tahari shell over and over, playing with the tactile object whilst she waited for Darwin to speak...

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Darwin was feeling a flood of emotions just as he could see the same range of emotins on her face as he looked into her eyes.He knew it was up to him to explain himself but not knowing just how to start began by takin her small hand in his and leading her to a small couch in the corner of the foyeHe waited until she had sat down looking up at him expectantly.

She seemed so fragile and yet Darwin felt that deep inside she held a sense of confidence and pride, giving her a maturity that belied her apparant age.

He thought of a kitten, seemingly soft and vulnerable, but ready to face the biggest dog around. He sat down beside her, leaving a comfortable distance between them.He turned to her and then began.

Ms....

He hadn't had a chance to check the regester, oh lord he mumbled and then remembering what he had told himself earlier about being himself he said softly, it looks like you could use a friend and thats what I'd like to be not some fancy greeter or take charge tour guide. My mother often tells me sometimes Darwin you take life too seriously have some fun. you spend too much time alone in that sail boat. get a life.

Darwin hesitated

She says, I talk too much sometimes too.

His face broke into a huge grin

now let's hear your story

He said, as his face softened with concern.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine was suprised as Darwin took her hand and led her to a couch, tucked away in a quiet corner. She moved her hand ot of his graps, sat down and looked up at him waiting.

"Ms.... "
He paused awkwardly, but she was reluctant to give him her surname... she did not want her irrational fear to become reality, anonimity was preferable, although she felt a twinge of guilt as Darwin again seemd at a loss for words.

Enough she thought and took a breath to begin her own explanation, but stopped as once again he took her hands and looked earnestly into her eyes;

"... it looks like you could use a friend and thats what I'd like to be not some fancy greeter or take charge tour guide. "
His soft voice totally suprised her... did she look that "needy"? She asked herself.

"My mother often tells me sometimes Darwin you take life too seriously have some fun. you spend too much time alone in that sail boat. get a life. "
His words reminded her of her own mother, she had been so fun-loving and carefree..once... though it seemd a longtime ago.

"She says, I talk too much sometimes too. "
Darwin added as his face broke into a huge grin.

Catherine returned the endearing grin. Yes he did talk too much, but he was nice with it...

"..now let's hear your story .." he prompted.

She looked over at him and dropped her eyes, speaking slowly at first then in a rush as her words came out;

"Story... well... there's not much to tell... except.. that I'm not booked in at this hotel and wanted somewhere much more ... modest... "
She blushed wondering if she'd given the impression she was short of funds, which was far from true, but did not want to explain the real reasons for her need to stay somewhere else.

"..and as I'm only here for the week, I really don't think I'm on your tour guiders list... I'm sorry if I've taken up your time..."

She smiled apologetically. Her tone softer as she looked up at him;
"I should have tried harder to tell you when you first met me off the boat... I'm sorry."

There was a silence between them.

Not knowing how to fill the silence which hung between them without revealling more about herself, Catherine rose from the sofa. She was relieved that she had sorted out the mix up and could now leave him and organise the rest of her holiday herself. She paused, waiting for Darwin to move aside, rather than ease past him and her way to the desk.

"I really need to find out about accommodation before I decide whether to book in here for the night... excuse me.... "

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

As I'm only here for a week ....I'm sorry for taking up your time other accomidations.... Darwin only heard parts of What she said, and not the parts he had hoped to hear.

His mind was in turmoil How was he going to tell her that once the tide was out there was no way off the island except in emergencies by helicopter. The government had very strict rules about that. That there were no other accomodations. That this was the only place to stay on the island. Maybe he should just let her get the bad news from some one else and just go home he had enough to do without watching out for a lost kitten. Besides he could just see the look on her face when she found out. He started to get up to let her past him and then he looked into her eyes. he watched as she still clutched at her Tahari shell... no he could not fail her again.

He touched her lightly on the shoulder,

Catherine, there are no other accomodations, only this hotel, but if you come with me I can see if my mother can put you up for the night.She has her own house in the old part of town It's very rustic ....well a grass hut to be exact. he said the last rather softly hoping she wouldn't be offended. just for the night until we can get things straightened out.

he couldn't figure out why she didn't want to stay here. All of the other guests loved it here but then he realized she was not like the other guests.

He looked at her trying not to look like he was pleading, which was in fact what he was doing. He looked at her shell and then putting his hand on his beneath his shirt, said a silent prayer to it's spiri.

Make her say yes, please we cannot fail her now.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine began to move past Darwin as he stood to let her pass. Just as she wound her way round him he reached out, his touch light on her shoulder.

"Catherine, there are no other accomodations, only this hotel, but if you come with me I can see if my mother can put you up for the night.She has her own house in the old part of town It's very rustic ....well a grass hut to be exact. he said the last rather softly hoping she wouldn't be offended. just for the night until we can get things straightened out."

Her eyes opened in shock.
"This can't be the only place!.. an islans like this must have... other types of accomodation!"
She protested with almost childish insistence.
She let the second part of his words sink in. the hut.. a grass hut... it sounded charming... and she so much wanted to get out of here... and.. his mother.. well that was respectable..my God her father would literally kill her if he ever found out... but she had intended to please herself.

She looked at Darwin who was watching expectantly. It was kind of him to make the offer and perhaps as things had not turned out as planned she could go home with the next boat instead.. she could see no other option.

"Are you sure your mother wouldn't mind.. I'd pay her.. but... "
She smiled at him with total frankness..
"I'd really love to get out of here. This isn't what I wanted at all. I was so looking forward to seeing the real island, not this commercial heap of wealth and pretention."

Realising she had insulted his clientelle she blushed, her fair complexion becoming rosy...
"..oh.. I'm sorry Darwin.. I .. well I.. didn't mean..."

She broke off laughing at herself.. god she was a wreck... this aswell was unlike her. She grinned at him with youthful impishness.
"I promise to behave if your mother is good enough to put up with me for one night.. "
She looked unsure, hesitant and shy...
"As long as you're sure it will be alright....?"
Her eyes vulnerable as she looked deep into his eyes.

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

She said yes! Darwin couldn't believe his ears but he should have as just before she spoke he felt the warmth eminating from his shell or had he just wanted it so bad he imagined it.

It didnt't really matter because she said yes! He felt her exuberance and had to hold himself back to keep from hugging her. Instead he said

You'll like my mother and don't worry she'll make you behave.

Not waiting for her to change her mind, he grabbed her bags and together they fled from this unfriendly place. People were already starting to stare at them as if they didn't belong here and they were right, they certainly didn't.

The sun was setting as they crossed the plaza, and they stopped a moment to watch it dissapear behind the mountains. Darwin turned to Sam and smiled, he thought that she was no child, that she was more like his own age. but then she was so full of youthfull vitaliity he wasn't sure, no matter, Darwin thought they could be great friends if only for a day.

Arriving at his mothers house he explained that he had his own hut not far away but that they all ate together.

He was interupted by his mother at the door and feeling rather sheepish, explained Catherines situation and backed away.

Welcome!

Hhis mother exclaimed as she threw her arms around the girl. Any friend of Darwins is a friend of mine.

Releasing her she said

I hope I didn't insult you but....shruggin her shoulders... hugging is the customary greeting here and then she threw her arms around Catherine again and said come inside my child you've had a long trip and you need to freshen up a bit She shooed Darwin off by saying.

get us a couple of bowls of stew,
this girl needs to put some weight on her bones.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

She could not help her face breaking into a grin as she saw how Darwin's face lit up hearing her acceptance of his kind offer, or rather his mother's kind offer, even though the poor woman did not realise her home was about to be gatecrashed.

"You'll like my mother and don't worry she'll make you behave."
She giggled hearing his words and watched as Darwin grabbed her bags and began leading her out of the hotel.

They walked side by side out of the hotel grounds and across the plaza. Catherine gave a small gasp as she looked up to see hte sun setting behind the mountains. It was so beautiful. The hotel had felt oppressive and uncomfortable, but out here she was feeling freer already. She looked over at Darwin and grinned again.

Darwin led Catherine over to his mother's house and explained that his own hut was a short distance away, but that they all ate together. She nodded, feeling slightly nervous again. A woman, no doubt Darwin's mother, came forward and Darwin turned to her to explain how she was going to be lumbered with an unexpected guest for the night.

Catherine stood self consciously as they spoke in hushed tones.

"Welcome!"
The enthusiastic exclamation was accompanied by a pair of arms being thrown around Catherine and a friendly but firm squeeze.

"Any friend of Darwins is a friend of mine. "

Catherine was pinked and breathless as the woman released her.

"I hope I didn't insult you but hugging is the customary greeting here"
Catherine laughed as she found herself enveloped in the woman's arms once more. Her cheeks pinked in pleasure at the totally unexpected enthusiasm of the welcome.

"Catherine again and said come inside my child you've had a long trip and you need to freshen up a bit."
Catherine giggled as Darwin was sent off to fetch bowls of stew;

"...this girl needs to put some weight on her bones."

Catherine allowed herself to be led inside. She had expected to feel ill at ease when Darwin left leaving her alone with a stranger, although Darwin himself was a stranger too... but.. she felt strangely cossetted and safe with this effusive lady...

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Darwin brought the stew and they ate in silence hungry after the long day. He tried to hang around but his mother shooed him away saying

Can't you see shes tired get out of here you monster.

Darwin grinned at her and turning to Catherine said

Do you still want to go to the beach tomorrow . she nodded and he said good night turning to leave His mother bellowed.

Give the girl a hug now It's the custom you know

Darwin stepped toward Catherine and putting his arms around her held her for a moment mmmm he murmered unconsiously and then embarassed backed away and out the door.

As he walked away he heard her again don't forget to milk the goat in the morning lazy bones.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine only had time for a quick was of hands and face, before Darwin returned with the food. She ate enjoying the hot aromatic meal and giggled at the interaction between mother and son.


"Can't you see shes tired get out of here you monster. "
The woman was warm, perceptive and caring.

Darwin seemed to Catherine to be a loving and dutiful son. As he turned to leave he spoke to Catherine asking if she wanted to go to the beach tomorrow. She did not know what her plans would be, but the beach would be nice, so she nodded smiling and stood as he turned to leave.

"Give the girl a hug now It's the custom you know."
His mother's bellow pulled him up short.
Catherine stood, her eyes shyly cast down as she felt Darwin's arms around her. She caught her breath as he held her. She heard him murmur and felt is warmth, swaying fractionally towards him. She was saved as he pulled away quickly. Both of them blushing before Darwin backed away and out the door.

His mother seemed blissfully unaware of the self-consciousness of the young people.

"Don't forget to milk the goat in the morning lazy bones..."
She bellowed after him.

Catherine was left alone to change into her nightware. She washed more fully and untied her hair brushing it out as it reached below her shoulders and pulled on a light white lace nightdress. Pretty and feminine in its simplicity. She looked at the bed and ached to get in it,but her mind was still troubled.

Darwin's mother called her and asked if she wanted a drink before going to sleep. Catherine shyly went to sit beside Darwin's mother and sipped the aromatic brew she had prepared. It was soothing and she was assured that it would help her sleep.

As she sat in a companionable silence, she felt the woman's eyes on her. She raised her own troubled eyes.

"Can't be so bad... child... " she commented.
"Nothing that can't be sorted tomorrow.

"No...I suppose not..." Catherine mused softly, supressing a yawn...

"Darwin. He is a good boy.. a good son... he will help you. We will help you. It will all be for the good. You will see."

Catherine smiled, overcome by the woman's warmth.

"Now..to bed.. finish and sleep. Tomorrow.. all will be better."
Catherine smiled and put down her now empty cup.
On impulse she reached out and hugged the woman.

"Thank you.. for being so kind... "
She said.. inadequately.. and left quickly and shyly for the bed she had been offered for the night....

As she lay down, for once, despite the dire situation she found herself in she spared not a thought for her father or mother... she fell asleep dreaming of the setting moon..plazzas.. seashells.. and a pair of dancing dark brown eyes and the feeling of a strong pair of arms around her.. holding her as she drifted off... into a peaceful and exhausted sleep.....

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Waking before dawn Darwin sat up and stretched. usually he stayed in bed for a while listening to the mornig arrive, The old rooster to crow and the bleating of the sheep and goats wanting their breakfast. Sometimes he threatened to make soup out of that oldd rooster as he reminded him that it was tme to get up and start his day. But he didn't of course he was in fact an old friend and though the old fellow kept his distance somehow suspecting Darwins intentions, they shared a respect for each other.

This morning Darwin was up ahead of him and as his habit was, stepped naked from his hut. he looked around but it was total darkness. He shruged his shoulders certainly there were no elders up this early. Grining he made a dash for the pool, thinking he knew his way in the dark. alas some one had left the milk pail in the path last night and he stepped smack dab in the middle of it.

Taking two or three steps with it on his foot he made a clatter he thought could be heard around the whole island. Kicking it away only made more clatter and Darwin, his big toe smarting limped the rest of the way to the pool, where he fell rather ungracefully into the warm water. it soothed his damaged toe and his deflated ego ...until the rooster wakened by the noise began to crow. Darwin groaned now everyone will be awake.

To make matters worse the sun began to rise making his retun trip to his hut a serious problem. he had dropped his towel when he kicked the bucket.He saw it laying just twenty paces away. He shrugged his shoulders and sunk deeper into the steaming water at least as the warm misty fog covered his embarasment for now, he might as well get his bath. he found the soap and sponge and began, hoping his mother and her guest would sleep through this commotion and when things quieted a bit he'd make a dash for his towel and his hut.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

As the golden rays of the sun strengthened and danced heatedly across her eyelids, Catherine stirred. Her body stretched laziily as she became aware of the light covers drawn snuggly around her body. Drawing the cocoon still closer, she slowly opened her eyes, shutting them immediately against the dazzling beams. She lifted her head slowly and pulled herself upright, protected now from the shafts of light, she let her gaze travel curiously around the room. For moments she groped around in her consciousness trying to pinpoint where she was and..why? Her memory sprang backinstantly as she heard the clatter and singing of Darwin's mother as she went about her chores.

Catherine looked anxiously towards the sun. Was the sun high, or merely strong? How late had she slept? She felt as if er slumber had been long and deep. Refreshed now, she felt more carefree. Darwin's mother was right, things weren't so bad.

Catherine drew her legs out from under the covers, placing her bare feet on the sun-warmed floor. This place was so cosy, homely, safe... She could not begin to express how grateful she'd been for this refuge, just when she needed it most... She would sort out her predicament today and would accept any advice her new-made freinds offered her.

Hearing a noise she turned to look towards the door...

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Darwin finished his bath the steamy water enclosing him in it's comforting, healing warmth.

The rooster happy to have announced the morning quit his raucus crowing and the day began.

Darwin, realizing the longer he waited only complicated his embarrasing situation, took a deep breath and jumped out of the pool ran down the path stooping to gather up his towel and sped for his hut.

Inside he let out the breath he had been holding and slumped into a chair. he told himself that he'd have to break that morning habit especially if there were guests in the area. But there never were, at least not until now. Thinking about his mothers guest and how it came to be that she was there, started a chain of thoughts that began to play out in Darwins mind. His inquisitive mind asked questions that he couldn't answer and that he felt Catherine wasn't ready to answer either. He realized too that he should'nt push her too hard to accept his company and wondered if she needed to take care of her business before she could relax.

Well his mother was good medicine for her. she had such a big heart, everyone she met became most comfortable in her presence.

Perhaps he should wait until she was more receptive before he becme involved in her life he had his boat to take care of and it had been a long time since he had hiked back into the mountains. But he did wish that she would stay for more than just a day like she said. The only way for her to get off this island was to fake an emergency so that they would call for a helicopter Darwin became anxious at the thought of telling her about the tide maybe she would realize it herself as they looked for shells later and swa the lagoon blocked by the rocks. What if she knew about the tide, would she in anger go back to the hotel and refuse to see him or his mother. He could tell that she was a very determined girl maybe used to getting her way, maybe he should let someone else break the bad news or let he figure it out for herself.

He heard the goats bleat and pulled his shorts on quickly, wondering if he should put a shirt on. usually he didn't his naturally dark skin didn't burn from the sun and he was used to going without except out of courtesy for the guests. This guest was different he thought and then remembered the hug his mother had made him give Catherine last night Yes this guest was certainly different he smiled, a warm feeling coming over him.

The goat bleated again and Darwin barefooted went to his mothers house to greet her and Catherine and get the mik pail.

hey ma, he shouted near the door where's the milk pail....

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Curious, Catherine padded barefooted across the floor and opened the bedroom door. Darwin's mother was sat at the table in the corner of the room.

"hey ma, where's the milk pail....?"
The words were shouted from the door as Darwin stepped into the room with a cheeky grin at his mother.

Catherine became aware suddenly that both mother and son had turned to fix their eyes on her. She stood shyly in the doorway, unaware of the sun shining through her white nightdress and her shining hair tumbled about her shoulders. She looked slight and innocent and very young.

"Good morning.." She spoke softly... "I..I .. didn't mean to.. interrupt..."

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

His shout was met by silence as he stepped thru the door way, silence and a vision .

Catherine, her name came out of Darwins mouth a whisper, bearly audable but distinct and crisp as if it were spoken more to himself than to her. Not a question but a statement, a statement of her presence and how he felt about it.

What he was feeling was total emersion. Emersion in the vision before him.

The sunlight danced through her hair like a tousand fireflies slipping down its' length and spilling dwon around her shoulders enhancing the texture of her night gown, translucient against her skin. Catherine, he whispered again his voice wavering as his eyes followed the firefly light down her slender body/ The cloth flared out but the light continued down her hips her thighs her legs and finally disappeared into the floor.He had thought at first she was an angel transformed somhow in the night. The missionaries had talked about seeing angels but he had never seen one until now, he thought, until he looked into her dark eyes and seeing there life, excitement, vitality, innocence and shyness, all the beauty of a mortal being

Catherine, he said again you're beautiful. His mother broke the quietness of his words by saying sternly.

Did you forget how to knock and then her voice softened because she saw the effect this vision had on her son.

You stepped into the pail on your way to the pool this morning or did you bump your head and loose your memory. Get out and find your pail and milk the goat. She stepped between them breaking the spell Darwin turned and left the hut, glad that his mother hadn't asked him to greet Catherine with hug, for he was sure that if he had he would have been swallowed up by her beauty.