Never Say Never (closed for yaturtle and haremfaery)

[haremfaery]

Samantha Murphy sat at the bar at Club Scandalous. She dangled one shoe from her toes as she sipped her drink. She was wearing leggings and a soft pullover tunic. It was her after-performance uniform. Soft and comfy. She had been hired to spend two week at this exclusive resort to perform and teach belly dancing. It was a sweetheart of a deal. All expenses paid, unfettered use of everything the facility had to offer including two pools, a fitness center, a spa … And she was being paid more in two weeks than she could make in a good six weeks at her day job. The only downside, and it was a big one, was that this was a resort that catered to a clientele with special and exotic tastes. Some might call these tastes kinky. Some might call them downright perverse.

She was in no way obligated to participate, thank God, but she did have to fill out their rather extensive questionnaire about her likes and dislikes, what she was curious about, and what her hard no’s were. She had to admit that it turned her on a bit thinking about all these different kinks. It was fun to fantasize about some of these things. She also had to sign a confidentiality agreement, which actually made her happy. Not only couldn’t she talk about anyone she met here, or their activities, or take pictures, etc., etc. But she was also protected.

She didn’t know what she was expecting, but everyone had been so respectful. It was a far cry from dancing in restaurants or parties, where people, usually men, thought being a belly dancer meant it was okay to make passes at her, or worse, say rude suggestive things and grab at her. A lot of people came up to her after her performance to thank her and tell her how much they enjoyed it. Especially the part where she covered her face with her veil and undulated. She had also worn her beaded accessories from Egypt that included a beaded collar-like choker, wrist cuffs and anklets that had the subtle look of shackles. She thought it would go over with this crowd and she was right.

She finished her moscato and smiled and pointed at her glass for a refill when the bartender turned her way. He filled her glass and pointed to a sign above the bar. “Just a reminder, there’s a two-drink maximum for alcohol. A place like this, we don’t want anyone getting too drunk to consent, or to get out of hand.”

The way the guy was built, she expected he could take care of any unruly customers. But it made sense. “I appreciate that. I just wanted to chill a bit before calling it a night.”

She heard a masculine chuckle from the corner of the room and saw one of the owners, Jim, the one who had interviewed her on Skype. Jim was a burly blond who looked like a Viking. He was sitting with three other men, all of whom were good looking. Was that a prerequisite here? All of the staff she had seen were all variations of handsome or beautiful. She should take it as a compliment that they hired her. But she didn’t consider herself a 10. She was too short, and while dancing gave her a tiny waist, she thought her butt was too big and her thighs too thick, but her body was tight and she worked out to keep it that way. Especially since she wasn’t as young as she used to be.

One of the men in the corner with dark hair and piercing eyes caught her watching them. She quickly looked away and blushed. There had been so many people in the ballroom, and the stage lights were so bright, she only saw the people seated in the first few rows next to the platform that was the stage.

She looked up again and the man was still looking at her. Her blush deepened and she looked away. She was a 42-year-old divorcee and she was blushing like a school girl.

 

[yaturtle]

Al gibbons had landed at the club quite by accident . An old golfing buddy had asked him if he would be willing to take over as treasurer . Why not his wife had passed and he was retired it would be something to keep him occupied .After a time it became obvious that Phil's wife Janice had a thing for him and the couple had more in mind for him than the treasurer position.He had politely declined and they all remained friends and served on the board together. Phil and Janice were living “the lifestyle and loving it”. As board members we attended most of the events they held.
In a short span of time he had witnessed everything from poetry reading, to instruction for binding your playmate, to a mock slave auction and everything in between.This night was belly dancing and the board members gathered at their usual table against the wall. He had never seen a performance before and honestly thought it would be silly. That is until this amazing redhead took the stage and his imagination .He was mesmerized for the entire show. Afterwards the crowd went out to the lounge while the board remained at the table chatting. She had changed out of her costume and sat on the front of the stage sipping a drink. Al patted Phil on the shoulder telling him he would catch up with them later . Sitting himself next to her on the stage he crossed his legs absentmindedly picking at the crease on his pant leg. “That was a stunning performance ,you must be in high demand”

 

[haremfaery]

"Thank you." Samantha smiled at the man. He was older than she, very well dressed, and quite handsome. "I wouldn't say I'm in high demand. I mean, I don't get invited to run workshops in Europe. Saudi princes don't have me on speed dial. I still have a day job. The only belly dancers I know who are making a living at it all have husbands with lots of money to help finance it for them. But belly dancing is the best part-time job I could ever want. It pays for my obsession with baubles, bangles, and beads." She laughed. "I teach a few classes at night and perform on the weekends. The gig here seemed like a unique opportunity to get a paid two-week vacation." She shrugged.

She had seen this man sitting with Jim, so he might be part of the management, or at least a regular here. She toyed with the white rubber bracelet on her wrist which designated her as Vanilla and basically off limits.

 

[yaturtle]

Al listened carefully, taking mental notes as she spoke. She had a humbling opinion of her own talents and seemed pleased with her arrangement to perform and teach at the club. She mentioned other dancers having husbands to support them indicating she may not be in a relationship. The club had strict policies to protect non members under contract So he would have to tread lightly with any probing questions and knew he would get a peak at her file later.
“Well I don't know how Jim found you but I am glad he did.I will certainly encourage the ladies to to take your classes. I hope you take advantage of the amenities during your stay. My name is Allen, our club’s treasurer . I am usually around the office during the day if you have any questions.[ Standing up to leave he looked down into her eyes] Perhaps you would join me for lunch when your schedule permits?"

 

[haremfaery]

"My friends, Keith and Emma, are members here. They are in the lifestyle 24/7. I met Emma when she took bellydance lessons from me. We've been friends ever since. They told me that the club runs special themed events to keep people interested. She suggested that a Middle Eastern theme might be fun and that I would be a good choice for a bellydancer. I'm not into any of this really, but--no judgement, you know?" She smiled at him. His blue eyes were the most intense she had ever seen.

"And thank you, I do plan to enjoy the facilities. I'm looking forward to a massage and a manicure. Who knows, I might even attend one of the demonstrations if I'm feeling adventurous." Why on earth did she say that? Maybe she was a little curious about all of this. Emma and Keith had told her that they wouldn't be attending while she was working here--they thought it might be too awkward for all of them. She agreed. Especially if she decided to attend one of the demos or workshops.

"Thank you, Allen. But I think most of my questions are ones to ask Google in the privacy of my room." Her pale skin when rosy. "As for lunch ..." She pulled out her phone. "I have a class in the morning and one in the afternoon, so noon would work. As long as you don't mind me being a bit mussed from class. But then, you've seen me after performing, so I guess it's okay."

~~~~~

Al went to the office the next day and after seeing if there was anything pressing that needed to be dealt with, he found Samantha's file. She was 42 and divorced. Had a day job as a librarian of all things. Had been performing and teaching bellydancing since right after college.

As to her Club questionnaire, most of her answers were "I don't know," "I don't know what this is," and "EW." But it seemed she had some experience in light bondage and liked it. She also thought she'd like roleplaying scenarios. She had some very hard limits when it came to bodily fluids, choking, pain. She was curious about many things but wasn't sure she wanted to try them in real life. Rape fantasies and dubious consent were awkwardly admitted to, but those were very common fantasies for women.

She was delightfully innocent but curious.



______________
NOTE: I found a questionnaire online and filled it out as I thought Samantha might. I put it into dropbox. If the link doesn't work let me know and I'll figure out another way to link it.

 

[yaturtle]

In the office the next morning Allen quickly dispatched the mundane paperwork that awaited him every morning and pulled her file. He's a was a little amused with her combination of occupations and embarrased at himself for peeking at the file. His immediate attraction to her actually concerned him. He had not felt this way in a long time and barely knew her. Unable to focus on the rest of the clubs business he double checked is appearance and thought about their lunch and what he would talk about. More importantly how he would get her to see him again away from the club. While under contract she was off limits,and he was already dancing a fine line. He fiddled with a solitaire game on the PC while he waited for her to knock.

 

[haremfaery]

Samantha, usually very gregarious and willing to stay after class to answer questions, but a damper on things and suggested her students come to the afternoon class. She also handed out cards with her email, and all her social media accounts for them to contact her.

She practically ran back to her room. Club Scandalous was sort of like a hotel, among other things. It had rooms for some staff and people like Samantha hired to do presentations and the like. There were also rooms for people who were traveling from out of the area, or those who wanted to totally immerse themselves in what the club had to offer.

Her room was bigger than a standard hotel room. It reminded her more of an efficiency apartment, although the kitchen area was very small with a a jalf-sized fridge. The sitting area had a love seat, chair, and a glass coffee table. In the corner was a desk and chair suited for computer work. But the room was dominated by a king-sized four-poster bed. While the furniture was a bland contemporary style that you would find in most hotels, the bed seems particularly sturdy and Samantha had alreasy noticed that there were metal rings on the posters and head and foot boards. It made her blush when she first discovered them.

She stripped off her workout clothes and pinned her hair up. No time to wash it unless she wanted to go to lunch with damp hair. She jumped in the shower for a quick wash. Bellydancing was surprisingly aerobic and she always broke a sweat when teaching or performing.

She toweled off and put on clean yoga pants and a sports bra. She topped the outfit with an embroidered tunic that came to mid-thigh. She liked to "look the part" when she was working and the tunic. She decided to wear heels to dress things up a little bit. No time for makeup either, although she didn't usually wear it when she was teaching.

She grabbed her dance bag and went to the first floor where the offices were. She found what she hoped was the right room and knocked.

"Come in."

She peeked into the room. "Allen?" She breathed. "Oh, good. I wasn't sure I had the right office."

 

[yaturtle]

Allen looked up when he heard the knock, Surprised it was from the back hall door and not through the reception area . All the better he thought ,One less thing Cathy the snoop receptionist would have to talk about. “Ah Samantha, you found the private entrance and you're right on time as well. I hope you had a solid turn out for your class. Jim’s promotional material made you sound like a superstar on her farewell tour. The receptionist says the members are asking if there are still any openings. So it seems the consummate salesman is working his magic as usual. I hope you will enjoy our waterfront cafe .” Standing up he paused and gazed down into her eyes,maybe for second to long. He smiled and held the door for her . “right this way”. The door closed with a click and echoed in the hallway.

 

[haremfaery]

"I got a bit twisted around with the facility map. I admit--I'm directionally challenged. I live by my GPS." She grinned. She talked as they walked to the cafe. "Punctuality is important for a performer. I always try to be early, but I wanted to freshen up a bit. Teaching is sweaty business, especially when the class is full to capacity. This afternoon's class is full as well. I haven't looked beyond that. I'l also glad that everyone respected my wishes for no observers. I find it makes students self-conscious when they are being watched. I thought some of the Doms might try, but everyone was cool. It's rather refreshing."

"I'm performing again tonight, but tomorrow I have the whole day to myself."

 

[yaturtle]

He had reserved a window table overlooking the water and held her chair for her to sit down. Standing over her he inhaled her scent ,a mild scented soap the must have showered with. Once they were seated he said "I hope you like the view , I have always loved being near the water something about it is very calming. " he watched as she looked over the menu and turned his head to face the water. In his mind he was watching her dance again." Do your performances vary a great deal or do you do the same show?"

 

[haremfaery]

"It's very pretty." She grinned at him. "Are you a Pisces? Or maybe a Cancer or Scorpio? I know water signs are influenced by their surroundings. And Pisces especially like to be around water. My parents are beach people. We went to the shore every year on vacation. But with my skin, I'd have to slather on SPF one million and stay under the boardwalk--I'd still get sunburned."

She looked over the menu. So many interesting and yummy things to try, but she'd have to eat light. Teaching on a full stomach wasn't fun. She looked up at his question. "First, let me warn you: I love to talk about dancing, so feel free to shut me up." She set the menu aside having made her mind up.

"I have quite a few choreographed routines of varying lengths, but at this point, I improvise a lot. At the restaurant where I perform, I know the layout and can do my routines in my sleep. But performing at a new location, especially privates parties at people's houses ... Well, you never know what sort of space you'll have. So I have to adapt my routines on the fly. I have a lot of short routines, three-to-five minutes that I teach my students and perform with my troupe when we do a program somewhere, like a retirement community or nursing home. Some of those I can mix and match into a routine. "At the restaurant, I perform routines anywhere from twenty-to-forty minutes. Depends how big the crowd is. A longer routine gives me more time to get customers up to dance with me and make sure all the birthday boys and girls get some special attention." She grinned again.

"Last night, I used a shorter routine. I basically wanted to give people a taste and whet their interest. Based on the crowd last night, I'll do a longer routine tonight and probably use a prop. I haven't decided yet. My sword or maybe my fan veils." She paused but Allen still looked interested, so she continued. "I know a few different styles of dancing, so that helps mix things up. My first show might be Egyptian style, which is tinier movements with lots of locks and drops. For a second or final show, I usually do American Cabaret. The movements are bigger, I think the music is more accessible to Americans. If I know Persians are in the audience, I might throw in movements that are more typically Persian, for instance, and get the women up to dance with me instead of the men."

 

[yaturtle]

He grinned when she asked about horoscopes." I don't know much about about the cosmos except some come with olives and some don't. I think that makes me a pedestrian,but I was born in December and prone to bad jokes if that helps."
He listened to her detailed explanation of what influenced her decision to use certain types of dance routines as opposed to others. His mind wandered as he listened, reliving the only performance he had seen so far . He loved to watch her expressions and gesture's as she spoke with passion about dancing . When she finished he sipped his coffee and rubbed his chin with a quizzical expression. " This schedule must knock you out. Tomorrow would be a good day to sleep in and pamper yourself in the spa. Maybe you would feel up to dinner later on." Before she could answer the waiter appeared with their lunch.
The yacht club makes a fabulous steak dinner and you can put your feet up and enjoy a drink on my boat afterwards. " He knew he would not see her entire performance tonight as he had other plans . This afternoon he would arrange for flowers and a card to be left in her room ,congratulating her and leaving his number if she wanted to go with him the next evening.

 

[haremfaery]

Samantha laughed. "Cosmos are okay, but I prefer Manhattans. But it seems bartenders don't know how to make them properly any more. But if you were born in the first half of December, then you are a Sagittarius--a fire sign. If you were born after the twenty-first, then you're a Capricorn--an earth sign. I'm an Aries, a fire sign, but I have a lot of Gemini in my chart, so I have a lot of those qualities as well. I don't really believe in those daily horoscopes, but I think astrology can give some insights into your personality and how you approach life. Frankly I think it's just as valid--or invalid as Enneagrams, or Myers-Briggs, or any other psychological personality test." She chuffed a laugh. "Sorry, I'm rambling again. But I got into astrology, palmistry, numerology, and a lot of occult stuff when I was in eighth grade. Some of it stuck with me. I find it all fascinating."

She took a moment to shut up, sip some water and let Allen talk, but he seemed more interested in asking her questions than talking about himself.

She thanked the waitress when she put the pecan crusted salmon and mango salsa in front of her.

"At home I work all day, then teach four nights a week. I usually perform in restaurants two Fridays a month, and then whatever private parties I book. This is a little more strenuous, but not by much. I'd love to have dinner with you--And wow, you have a boat? I don't really know anyone here. I was just planning on kicking back and reading a trashy novel or binging something on Netflix."

She took a bite of the salmon, "Mmm." When she finished the mouthful, she decided to try and get him to talk about himself. "What do you do when you aren't working at the club?" He looked to young to be retired. But then, if he had a lot of money, he could afford an early retirement. He had a yacht after all.

 

[yaturtle]

Something about her laughter made him immensely happy.
He listened to her quip about his play on words and some of her real interest. She said she would be happy to have dinner tommorow and quietly asked what he did to keep himself busy. "Well I like to golf ,in fact that's were I met Phil one of our board members. Before my wife passed I was an officer at the yacht club and we were involved .with a lot of the social functions there. I still tinker with commercial property and investments. And I like to read ,actually I think that's why I keep the boat it's a relaxing place to read.with your hectic schedule I think it will be the perfect place to put your feet up and enjoy a Manhattan.
When your done being pampered here give me a call ,I'll pick you up pamper you even more. Looked down fiddling his pasta around the plate before looking back into her eyes . I'm really looking forward to it.

 

[haremfaery]

"I'm afraid that investing bores me to death. Probably why I won't ever have a ton of money. I tried reading a very simple book about 401K's and I fall asleep before I finish a few pages." She ate more of her salmon savoring every bite. "Your boat sounds lovely. I'll definitely call you when I finish my pampering." She felt a little thrill run through her. Here was a handsome unmarried man showing interest in her. He didn't seem creepy and had money.

She wanted to kick herself for bringing up astrology and the occult. That would peg her as weird.

"As for golf, I'm terrible at it. I took it in college as a phys ed course. The instructor named me Queen of the Divots. But at least I didn't have to run laps or try to play softball or tennis. I took all of the dance classes offered as part of phys ed. That's where I learned some ballroom dancing. I admit watching Dancing with the Stars is a guilty pleasure."

 

[yaturtle]

He was disappointed to hear talk about being a terrible golfer and thus inferring she didnt like it. "At some point I suppose I will have to break this to you anyway ,so it may as well be now. I am a terrible dancer. And other than enjoying your personal performance have no interest in it. What is really strange is both my parents loved it. Even competing in ballroom dances in their heyday. I guess the saying is true , opposites attract. Actually I think we will find more things in common than not. I do enjoy your company and I'm thrilled you accepted my invitation for dinner."
He sipped his coffee wondering what she thought of his admissions.

 

[haremfaery]

Samantha laughed. "That's fine. My ex couldn't dance his way out of a paper bag. I did the dancing for both of us." She took another bite of her food. It sounded like Allen thought they'd be seeing more of each other. That was fine with her. "I'd like to get to know you better. And I guess ... if this, you know, becomes something long term ... I'd be willing to give golf another try, if you'd be willing to try tango. I find the basics of tango to be easier than a lot of other dance styles."

"You said you like to read. What are you reading right now? And do you have a favorite book? I just finished The Alienist. They made a TV show out of it. I just started a novel about Christopher Marlowe, the Elizabethan playwright."

 

[yaturtle]

Relieved that she didn't view him as potential dance partner he responded."Ah well I can certainly tolerate myself being less then proficient as long as i don't ruin it for you ,and as for golf trust me there are days when the queen of the divots can give me a run for my money. I would view it more as something to do while we took a long walk together and shared some laughs. " He tried to read her eyes as she listened to his words." As for books i enjoy historical fiction . I applaud authors who can intertwine their characters through actual events interacting with real people and still spin a good tale. Pillars of the earth springs to mind,Stephen kings 1963 is another. Currently I am reading the abbots Tale, and Ushers passing is next in line. I could go on and on but i dare not make you late."

 

[haremfaery]

Samantha laughed. "Didn't someone say that golf is a good walk spoiled? But as I said, I'm willing to try golf if you're willing to try dancing."

"I've heard of Pillars of Earth. They made a TV series out of it. I haven't read the book or seen the series yet, but they are on my list. I've read a little of Stephen King, but I don't like horror very much. I got the impression that 1963 is a bit different for him. The Abbot's Tale sounds like something from Chaucer. I've never heard of Usher's Passing."

She pulled out her phone and looked at it. "I have a few more minutes. And we can continue talking tomorrow over dinner."

 

[yaturtle]

That afternoon he arranged for the flowers to be left in her room.
Then he tackled all the pending business he possibly could before calling reception to inform them he would not be in the following day. His mind kept drifting back to her questionnaire and the sound of her heels as she walked down the hall.Snapping back out of it he searched the internet for the best Manhattan recipes and printed them out so he could pick up the ingredients on the way home. That night her performances were wonderful again. He had all he could do to leave early knowing he had an early tee time tomorrow.The next morning he played well enough but knew his mind was distracted. After stopping to get the Lincoln washed and detailed he went home to get cleaned up.
He stood in front of the mirror and checked his appearance. the belt matched his boat shoes , his khaki's perfectly pressed .He put on his gold watch and a modest chain with a cross . He chose a crisp short sleeve in a deep blue ,the color his wife told him made his eyes pop. once he arrived on the boat he double checked to make sure everything was neat ,clean and in its place. After that he set up the bar ,filled the ice-maker and settled in with his book. As he read about an abandoned boy being raised in a monastery in 937 ad
and his rise to power, he drifted of to sleep. He was dreaming about playing the perfect round of golf in front of a huge crowd. Then he found himself in the audience at the club watching Samantha dance. She worked her way through the crowd teasing the men then pushing them away like one of those Broadway musicals .As she got closer to him the audience disappeared and the whole room turned white. He couldn't move a muscle as her hips and breast swayed back an forth in front of him. From one hand came something like a silk scarf. She twirled it around in the air as she moved around behind the chair. From behind the chair she rubbed the silk against his face ,then down his arm before looping it around his wrist and making a knot. In a husky voice she whispered in his ear " its time for your private lessons mister". Suddenly there was another voice, loud and persistent " one ringy-dingy two ringy-dingys snort snort.
His eyes snapped open as he realized it was the silly ass Lilly Tomlin ringtone on his phone. He practically fell out of his chair finding the book and the phone already on the floor .Quickly as he could he pressed answer.

 

[haremfaery]

Samantha went back to her room after her afternoon class to find flowers on her desk. At first she thought they were some sort of welcome gift, but the card was signed "Allen." She smiled, thank God they weren't roses or she'd have to leave them out in the hall. She was really allergic to roses, or any flowers with strong smells for that matter. The bouquet was mainly sunflowers with some lilies and snapdragons, which had been a childhood favorite. She wondered if he made a lucky guess and just chose summer flowers, or if he had contacted Emma for pointers.

She texted Allen and thanked him for the flowers. She took a bath, had a light dinner, and got ready for her gig. Allen had told her that he'd need to leave her performance early.

This time before she danced, she broke character before she began and gave the audience guidelines for how to be a good audience for a bellydancer. They were so respectful, she wanted them to know they could clap, whistle, and zagareet. She demonstrated how to do the loud ululation that women make in the Middle East. When she changed out of her costume she found a few people had wrapped their tip around their business card. Some even wrote on the back suggesting a scene they'd like to do with her. She was flattered but sex with a stranger was bad enough--but doing something kinky with someone she barely knew? Even with all the rules, it still made her nervous.

She went back to her room and drifted off to sleep wondering just what kinks Allen had.

~~~~~~​

The next day, she had a massage and got a mani/pedi. She found out that some of the staff at the club were members who put in work hours to get a discount on their member fees. Many of them were subs, or at least they seemed to be by their deferential attitude. She talked to the manicurist about bellydancing and how she should come take a class.

When she eventually got back to her room, she called Allen to see what time he wanted to pick her up. She had plenty of time to change. She put on her favorite underwear: a lacy peach bra and matching panties. She decided on a tank dress and sandals.

She put on a little makeup. She tended not to wear much in every day life since she went all out when she performed doing the whole Cleopatra look.

When Allen knocked on the door she was ready to go. "Hey, how was your day? How was your golf game?"

 

[yaturtle]

She greeted him with a wonderful smile and asked about his day an golfing. One look at her and golf had been forgotten. " Oh golf was so so, I did manage to get a nap in before you called " Suddenly his mind flashed back to his crazy dream and he felt his face redden. "You look positively radiant " He took half a step back to look her up and down before lifting her hand noticing her nails. "very pretty indeed, I hope they spoiled you today.
It wasn't a long drive to the yacht club . As they entered and made their way to the table
it was a little awkward, They were greeted warmly by several people as well as the staff, but this was the first time they had seen him with anyone other than his wife and he had to introduce Samantha three or four times before they were seated.

 

[haremfaery]

Samantha grinned. "They did. I feel so relaxed. If I had the money, I think I'd get a massage once a week. I think it's interesting how the club lets some members work there to lower their dues. I gues it's a win-win."

Everyone was friendly at the yacht club. But Samantha felt like she was being scrutinized. "So ... you don't usually bring dates here, do you?" She let Allen pull out her chair for her. A waiter was there almost immediately with menus. Hers had no prices on it. The offerings sounded very high end. And delicious.

"I'm not a big fan of shellfish, except for scallops and oysters. Is there something one the menu you'd suggest? Or what is your favorite?" She hoped this way he would lead her to ordered something that wasn't the most expensive thing on the menu. Although there was no worry that she'd order surf and turf. She wasn't into lobster. She'd only eat it if she had to be polite.

 

[yaturtle]

He was relieved to finally sit down at the table. When he had invited Samantha he wasn't thinking about the reaction his old friends might have to seeing him with someone new. He was suprised when she picked up on it and asked if he had taken other dates there. "No no I haven't. To be honest with you other than a weekend away with a woman who lied about not being married anymore, i haven't dated anyone since my wife passed. I really should have given that more thought before i asked, i was only thinking about letting you relax a bit on the boat. Everyone here knew her and loved her. I hope it won't make you uncomfortable". His face reddened at his own admission ." My favourites are the prime rib or swordfish, but they also do some wonderful tuna steak and a whole line up of Italian dishes".

 

[haremfaery]

"I'm sorry for your loss. And that really sucks lying to you like that. My ex-husband cheated on me, so that's a sore point with me. I've dated on and off. One guy I really liked. We were so compatible. But after a few months, I realized that he only came to my place, and a few times he cancelled a date at the last minute. Turned out he was married." She took a sip of the water that the waiter had poured. "I'm sure it's very different dating after losing your wife. I think it was five years before my mom even thought about dating after my dad died. She was a basket case for months. I'm humbled that you asked me out."

She took a breath. She didn't want things to get maudlin. "I'm half Italian, although I don't look it at all. No one cooks Italian food like my aunt. I usually order things that I can't cook for myself, or that I can't get at my aunt's house. I take after my mom's side of the family. Everyone says I look a lot like my grandmother did when she was young. She's the one who's family was Irish. My grandfather's side of the family was English and Welsh." She looked at the menu to see what came with the swordfish. "I think I'll go with the swordfish. I haven't had that in ages. I'm looking forward to seeing your boat."

The waiter came back and took their orders.

Samantha felt awkward again trying to think of something to talk about. Asking about the club here in the restaurant where people or their waiter could overhear.