They Met on a Train

[Xantham]

OOC: This thread is closed to outside characters, There is an ooc thread with this called: Want to try something different?

IC:

The food was somewhat palatable, hardly nearing the standards of the restaraunts we normally dined at, but, for train food, it seemed decent enough. It was still somewhat unusual to me to have dinner guests thrust upon you in quite this fashion, but if we wanted to eat, those were the rules. I chuckled to myself, my wife had such grand ideas, but she didn't always think them through. It was her idea to take the train from coast to coast, she thought it would be a nice escape from our world of constant activity. She said, "All we'll have to do on the train is gaze at the beautiful scenery, catch up with each other, and make sweet love whenever we want." She left out being stuck in one place, figuratively, for a week. The people were nice, I guess, in their own crass way, but after only 2 days, I was starting to feel a little out of it. To be truthful, there was no one from our walk of society travelling by train these days.

I looked across the table at our dinner guests. He was definitely from the East, probably somewhere around New York or New Jersey, but I couldn't place her accent. I was somewhat embarrassed to realize I couldn't remember his name, but for some reason Laura's stuck with me. As the meal progressed, I found myself really listening to the conversation. This was much better than the previous evening when an older woman and her husband(who could hardly hear a word) nearly put us to sleep with her constant anecdotes. I actually found myself listening with interest to her stories of waitressing in New York and the people she met. He didn't speak too often, but he seemed very protective of her in a good way. And looking at the size of his arms and chest, I wasn't going to mess around with him any time soon. I was doing the majority of the talking for our side of the table. My wife was always a little nervous around new people, at first, but she seemed to feel more at ease with these two than anyone else we had met so far on our journey. The meal ended and I found myself saying, "Hold that though, Laura. Would the two of you like to retire to the lounge car for an after dinner drink? I'd be happy to buy the first round." My wife looked at me with a question in her eye, but she seemed generally enthused about the suggestion, maybe she was as desperate for decent company as I. I looked over to the other side of the table.

 

[SexyChele]

Laura

I know that people wonder how Marty and I could have gotten engaged without ever meeting each other's parents, but when we met everything just clicked. And, well, here it is 8 months later and we are planning our wedding. I was hoping to meet Marty's mom before the wedding, but then she took ill so suddenly and it was vital that Marty be there with her.

It was difficult for Marty and I to get this much time off from our jobs, not to mention a bit of a financial strain, what with trying to pay for the wedding. But Marty is the best thing that has ever happened to me, and if he asked me to just elope with him I would. I just hope his mother will like me....I've been nervous ever since we found out she was ill.

I'd never been on a train cross-country before, and was pretty excited to go. But now, 2 days into it, I know both Marty and I are tired and just wish we could be at our destination. Strange how the movies always made riding a train seem so romantic. Well, at least Marty is being a real sweetheart about the whole thing, so I suppose I can too. It was a shame we couldn't book our trip in time to get a sleeping berth....sleeping sitting up has not been entirely comfortable. Plus, both Marty and I are a little edgy about the sudden loss of physical intimacy between us.

I look over at the couple seated with us for dinner. Nice looking...obviously have money. I wonder why they chose to take a train instead of travel by air - first class?? The wife - Constance I think - doesn't seem to say much, but she is very beautiful and very classy. Her husband is quite charming, keeping the conversation up, and being very entertaining. A couple of times I feel Marty squeeze my shoulder, but I am unable to read his thoughts. As we sit after dinner, I rest my head on Marty's shoulder - seems like that is the most physical intimacy we can get at the moment.

Then, to my surprise we are being asked to a private lounge. Oh, god, to not have to go back to those seats again! To go somewhere to stretch out, relax, and have a few drinks. But we are on a really tight budget, and I know Marty doesn't want to really spend more than he has to. Still....it would be so nice.

I smile, as I look at Marty for his answer.....

 

[Honey_B]

Constance

The meal was over. The food had been grotesque. It had been all I could do to pick over the plebian offering of overdone roast beef and tasteless carrots. To be blatantly honest, I had been regretting my childish whim to embark on this train trip. Foolishly, I had envisioned a less murderous version of Agathe Christie's Orient Express. Instead I had been treated to mediocre food (at best) and even worse dinner conversation. I tried not to cringe as I remembered last night's dinner companions. I would be damned if I would admit my mistake to my husband. My mother's words rang in my ears. "Men have to feel as if they have pleased their wives regardless of whether the opposite is true." Advice with all kinds of applications. I applied ito everything in my marriage from pretending to enjoy the train trip I had asked for to faking orgasms.

Tonight's dinner companions proved to be more interesting. A man and a woman from New Jersey, a Marty Jankowicz and Laura Baker, I believe. Upon meeting them, I quickly assessed the quality of their garments and the expense of their coiffs and I prepared myself for a lengthy evening with two Neanderthals.

I have to admit that I was pleasantly surprised. They were actually quite lovely. An engaged couple traveling to visit Marty's mother. He displayed a gruff exterior but somehow I could sense something beneath. Laura proved to be absolutely adorable.

Despite my initial reserve, I found myself talking to the couple easily. Eagerly I waited as my husband suggested retiring to the lounge car. I anticipated learning more about these surprisingly interesting people.

 

[mars99]

Marty

Ma had gone to visit her sister in New Mexico and had taken ill. My Pop knew we couldn't afford for all of us to go see her, so he wanted to make sure at least me and Laura got out there so Ma could meet her. Pop helped me out with a few bucks he had saved up and we were on the first train out. If we had enough money we were going to try to continue on to see her folks in California. My mother meant the world to me. She and Pop raised me and my 3 brothers with a class and dignity I would carry with me forever. The thought of losing her really had my spirits low and my only saving grace was that I had Laura at my side.

I'll never forget the day I first got Laura to go out with me. She worked at the restaurant me and the boys would go to for lunch sometimes. I knew from when I first laid eyes on her I wanted her to be with me. She was the nicest and sweetest thing I ever had the pleasure of talkin' to, and was the only woman even close to being as beautiful as my Ma. But she was seein' someone else at the time and with the boys around, I couldn't work up the nerve to ask her out. So one day while we were eatin', I went to my truck and got my guitar. I came back in and right there in the middle of the restaurant, I got down on one knee and started playing and singing Bruce Springsteen's "Jersey Girl" to Laura. I'm no great singer or anything but she didn't seem to mind. She was embarrased and all, but I knew she liked it. She agreed to go out with me and six months later, we were engaged. The 2 months since then have been the happiest of my life.

So now here we were having some real tasty roast beef and carrots with some new people. I looked across the table at the guy we were sittin' with. He was a friendly enough guy, but I wondered if he'd ever done anything romantic like that for his lady. Guys like that usually don't. They usually get things handed to them without having to lift a finger. From the looks of her, I doubt she would appreciate a gesture like that anyway. But hey, who am I to judge? I had a good life goin' and with the exception of Ma's illness, I was happy. Gettin' my mind of Ma was difficult so I couldn't add too much to the conversation, but they were real interested in Laura and her career and so forth. I don't blame them. I couldn't be more proud of her myself. They were nice enough to invite us back to the lounge car for a drink. I personally couldn't have cared less where we slept or hung out, but I knew Laura was uncomfortable in the upright seats and I would do anything I could to make my girl happy, even if it meant a couple extra bucks.

"Sure, Lawrence. You lead the way.".....

 

[SexyChele]

Laura

I was so excited when Marty agreed to go. I knew buying a round of drinks might cut into our budget, so how could you not love a guy like that?

As we followed Constance and Lawrence (somehow, Connie and Larry just didn't "fit"), I got the distinct feeling that there was separation between them. I wanted to ask Marty if he felt the same way, the space on the train was so small, there was no way to do it in private.

They hadn't told us if they had any children, but I felt they didn't. I smiled to myself because Marty said he wanted a big family - at least 4 like his parents did. I could see why....he was so close to his brothers, they all really stuck together and helped one another out.

I was an only child, with a father married to the office and a mother who had long since decided a string of lovers were more interesting than her child. I cut out the day after graduating from high school, and made my way to New York. People had always said I had looks and a nice figure, and modeling seemed like the perfect thing. But when I got to New York, reality set in. Oh, I got a few catalog deals, and there was one really nice lingerie layout, but not the big time like I was expecting. I somehow managed to survive for 4 years, until I realized that I wasn't going to make it.

Not having enough money to live in New York, a friend convinced me to move to New Jersey. At first I missed the busyness of the city, and was more than a little depressed to think that waitressing was the only thing I would with my life. Then Marty came in one day for lunch, and my whole world took a turn for the better. He covinced me that there was mind somewhere inside of me, and helped me sign up for some college courses. Hopefully, soon, I could say "good-bye" to waitressing and "hello" to better opportunity.

But now we are entering the private lounge, and I am amazed. It is truly luxurious. Who would have known they could do this on a train? I walk into the room, turning and spinning as I go to see everything. I get lost in the moment, until I see Marty looking at me with that "there goes my flower child of the 60s again" look in his eyes. I stop, looking down, slightly embarassed. But Marty smiles and I feel more at ease.

At Lawrence's invitation, I sit down on a wonderfully comfortable, overstuffed couch, wishing I could put my feet up and just sleep here. When asked what to drink, I request a white wine, and then put my head back to just luxuriate....

 

[Xantham]

Lawrence

All involved seemed enthusiastic about travelling down to the lounge car. The lounge car itself was closer to the sort of accomodations I was used to. It was still hardly first class, but at least it was comfortable. My wife led the way, followed by Laura, then her husband and I trailed the pack. Once he rose from his seated position, I really saw for the first time how powerfully he was built. I caught a snippet of conversation from Laura, which reminded me that his name was Martin.

I invited everyone to take a seat on the couches and took their drink orders. Even though the car was reserved for those people with a berth on one of the sleepers, the lounge car was unusually full with a number of people coming here right after dinner. I knew however that people would quickly filter out after a drink to head back to the sleeper cars. I collected the drinks and joined my wife on one of the couches where she was quietly engaged in small talk with Laura who sat in a couch opposite. Laura seemed to be luxuriating in her seat.

I marvelled at her innocence. How truly glorious it would be to have her sense of wide-eyed dreaming. I had long ago become all too cynical. I knew that somewhere in the world there were free spirits, but it seemed like it had been eons since I had last seen one, let alone conversed with one. With someone like Laura, I could re-experience the world as through new eyes. My wife, Constance, loved me very much, but she was old money. And it seemed sometimes that she saw life through green tinted glasses. One of the reasons I agreed so readily to this trip was the fact that there was nothing about it that was about high society. It was just about her and me. I could see the way Martin looked at my wife. There was a sense of distrust and worry, as though he was afraid Constance was just waiting to make some disparaging remark about him or more importantly, Laura. I felt some sympathy, it would not be the first time my wife had done something like that, but I felt that my wife connected on some level to Laura, and I didn't worry about an embarassing situation. I also knew that the two of them were good people, but poor. Martin looked like the type who was not going to take charity, though, so I needed to find a way for them to accept my hospitality. After all, the expenses of this train were hardly noticeable compared to our usual.

"I'll tell you what, Martin," I said to him, pulling his attention from Laura, "I'll make you a deal. I don't want you to feel the need to overspend your budget because of us. I am afraid my wife and I have made a poor impression on some of the other passengers and this has left us in dire need of good company. I propose that the two of you join us for meals and occasional entertainment, and I will worry about the drinks. Believe me, good conversation is more important to us right now than a few dollars."

I held Martin's gaze. I needed him to know this wasn't charity.

 

[mars99]

Marty

I didn't quite know what to make of these two. It seemed a little odd to me that they would would want to hang out with a couple a commoners like us. Well, like me I guess I should say. Laura's enthusiasm and charm would make anyone wanna hang around her. I'm sure she was more the draw than me, but it didn't escape my attention that Constance's eyes were occasionally roaming over my body. That made me more uncomfortable than anything else, but I guess it made me feel kinda good in a way. She was a nice lookin' little piece even though I couldn't really think of anything to say to her. I was warming up to this Lawrence guy. Seemed a little more down to earth than his wife. She looked like she'd be a pain in the ass to try to please, which made me all the more thankful I found someone like Laura.

We got to the drinking car and Lawrence took our orders. It was a little crowded for my taste. Too many people makes me a little nervous. But Laura was loving it in there and that was good enough for me. I ordered a beer and was disappointed when Lawrence came back with one of them fancy European beers I couldn't even pronounce. Why beers that taste like shit cost so much more I would never figure out. But he was buyin' and I wasn't complainin'. As the girls mingled, Lawrence pulled me aside and offered me his deal of all expenses paid in exchange for our company.

Now ordinarily, this is an offer I wouldn't take too kindly to. I had nothin' against wealthy people like some of my friends did, I was raised better than that. Everybody was born into whatever circumstances they were born into and they were the way they were, simple as that. But I worked for a living and was not used to having people pay my way. That and more importantly, the way he was lookin' at Laura, didn't turn me on to the idea too much. What exactly did he mean by occasional entertainment? But again, these weren't ordinary circumstances. We could stand to save a few bucks. Laura wasn't particularly excited to go see her parents, but I felt it would be right for me to meet them before the wedding so I wanted to make sure we had enough dough to get out there. As low as my spirits were I could use a few stiff drinks myself and Laura seemed to be enjoying these new surroundings, so I agreed.

"All right Lawrence, you got yourself a deal, but please, call me Marty. Only my Mom calls me Martin."

 

[Honey_B]

I accepted the wine that the train liked to call Chardonnay and settled back in my seat. The idea of furthering our association with our dinner companions appealed to me. I was pleased when Martin agreed to my husband's offer of financial assistance. For once, Lawrence and I were on the same wavelenth.

There was something fascinating about the feelings these two people obviously shared. A silly thought, but maybe, just maybe, I could learn something that would help my own marriage. I had been raised with the idea that a show of excess emotion was unnecessary and even undignified. Proper breeding dictated maintaining a sense of decorum in all matters. This is how I approached my married life. Lately though, I am beginning to wonder whether Lawrence wants something different... more. Something similiar to what Laura and Martin appearantly have. They certainly seem comfortable with showing how much they love each other, Laura especially. I can tell Lawrence is quite fascinated by her. It seems I have much to learn still about my husband... and myself.

As I chat with Laura, I try and draw out the details of her relationship with Martin. She is so refreshing in her openness. It is clear how much she loves him, and I can not help but admire her. An impulsive thought introduces itself into my mind and I put voice to it without thinking. "Laura, tell me how you knew Martin was the 'one'." I blurt out. "I mean, I am sorry if the question is too personal. You do not, of course, have to answer it." I looked at her expectantly hoping she would answer the question.

 

[Xantham]

Laura

I wondered what made Constance ask me that question. I can't really tell if she approves of us. She hasn't spoken much up until now and this question came literally out of the blue. Oh well, here goes, I hope she's not planning on making fun of me.

I look over to Marty to see if he's paying attention, but I don't think he heard Constance. I lean in a little closer to her because it is a little embarassing to be talking about my husband while he is sitting only a few feet from me. "I think the most amazing thing about Marty is that he knows how to make me feel important. When we first me Marty told me that I could be whatever I set my mind on being. I know it sounds like some sort of cliche, but when Marty said it I knew he meant it."

I look at Constance to see if she understands. She looks from me to Marty and Lawrence and then back to me.

 

[Honey_B]

Lawrence

It pleased me when Martin accepted my offer. I watched as the girls continued their conversation. Constance appeared to be showing an intensity quite unlike her.

"Martin, er... Marty, the ladies seem to be enjoying a very interesting conversation, by the look of them. I certainly hope they are not talking about us," I said with mock humor. I noticed that Constance looked up just then. She studied Martin first and then her eyes moved to me before returning to Laura.

Martin had also noticed her appraisal. We looked at each other and laughed. "I really think we are the topic of their conversation," I said through the laughter. "I think we better put an end to this conspiracy!" I clapped Martin on the shoulder and we walked over to the ladies. I had really enjoyed the good laugh. It seemed like forever since I had done so.

"Now what are you two talking about?" I said with an uncharacteristic impish grin.

 

[mars99]

Constance

Inevitable comparisons materialized in my mind when Laura had completed her heartfelt explanation of her and Martin's joyful relationship. I tried to remember the last time Lawrence had made me feel important, or perhaps the last time I had given him a chance to. We hadn't needed to make a show of each other's importance. We were each active members of fine, well regarded East Coast families, with the resources and political influence to buy and sell most of the patrons on this monstrosity they were passing off as a train. Our importance spoke for itself, so I thought.

The light in Laura's eyes, however, the feeling in her voice as she spoke of Martin and the potential he was encouraging her to strive for had me thoroughly taken aback. How was it that these people, born into such common circumstances, were able to greet each day with the passion that they did, while Lawrence and I struggled to come up with adequate dinner conversation between the two of us on a nightly basis?

I turned my gaze to the men who seemed to be getting on quite well. Funny, Lawrence was never that unrestrained in the circles we usually consorted with. Turning back to Laura, I smiled the most genuine smile I was capable of and placed my hand on her knee.

"I am truly happy for the happiness the two of you have found." I said.

 

[SexyChele]

Marty

I was still a little reserved about the "occasional entertainment" part of the deal we just struck, but it seemed like this Lawrence guy was shapin' up to be somethin' genuine. He was showing a little more openess than his wife seemed.

Although, when I looked over at Laura and Constance, it seemed that Constance was treatin' Laura OK, and that was good enough for me.

I could tell by the look on Laura's face that I was the topic of conversation. I smiled to myself. She could never keep a secret, 'cause everything showed in her face.

Still, I was happy for Laura that we could stay here for a while and enjoy better surroundings then we had so far. And the idea of talking to Lawrence didn't seem all that bad, either. I wonder if he keeps up with any teams. Naw, he probably watches those guys run around on horses chasing after balls. Now what was that? Oh, yeah, polo.

Just then he walks us back to the ladies, and I sit down next to Laura, my arm around her as she snuggles into me. It amazes me to think how good she seems to fit there.

"So, what you been talking about me, baby?" I ask her.

 

[Honey_B]

Laura

I looked at Marty, into his big brown eyes. My heart skipped a beat and melted all over again. It always did when he looked at me that way. I love when he puts his arm around me, makes me feel so protected. I moved closer to him, snuggling up to his warm body.

"I've been telling Constance about how wonderful you are, honey," I said as I gave Marty a sweet little peck on the cheek. My breasts scraping across his arm wasn't quite as innocent.

After I kissed him, our eyes met, lingering on each other. I almost forgot that Constance and Lawrence were there.

Breaking the spell, I said "Marty, why don't you tell them about the time I sprained my ankle at the restaurant." It was such a sweet story and showed off Marty's romantic, caring side.

 

[SexyChele]

Constance

As I watch the exchange between Martin and Laura, I feel something tug at my heart. Jealousy? Longing? Self-pity? Had Lawrence and I ever felt that at ease with each other? Had we ever felt that open?

Even now, Lawrence is standing behind me, and it would cross either of our minds to so much as touch one another on the shoulder in public. And these 2 in front of us are so willing to openly display their feelings for each other.

I remember back to the time when Lawrence and I were courting. People in our circle were just not demonstrative - not even after marriage. It was the accepted norm and practice. But now I wonder. Would it be so terrible for Lawrence to touch my shoulder now? Here? I look at the other patrons on this vehicle we are rumbling along on. Not quite to the caliber of people we normally associate with, but still looking at Laura and Martin as though they should be retiring to a separate area.

Yes, perhaps that is what is holding Lawrence and I back as well. What will others think. That has always been the dictate of our lives. Besides, even if I were to want to change, how would I? I could never make the first move towards Lawrence. And I doubt he would with me either. Sipping the this obnoxious drink they call wine, I glimpse Lawrence out of the corner of my eye. Yes, he is watching Laura and Martin as well. And that small smile of amuzement on his lips. Is his laughing at them, I wonder? Or wishing he could join in?

"Yes, Martin, er, Marty - sorry. Please. Regale us with the tale of Laura's sprained ankle. It sounds positively amusing!"

I sit back, slight smile on my lips, waiting for the tale to unfold.

 

[mars99]

Lawrence

Our arrangement was off to a delightful start. I was more than happy to see Martin getting into the spirit of things and enjoying himself. Not only was he turning out to be fine company, it genuinely made me feel good to use my financial resources to assist others in their need or just for amusement, as in this case. Deep down, part of me felt like money was all I really had in this world, so I was always glad to put it to good use. I was also quite relieved that our new found companionship would most likely put an end to Constance's incessant complaining, which at this point was almost more than I could bear.

Then, of course there was Laura. As hard as I tried I could not seem to take my eyes off of her. Her magneticism was overwhelming. As she snuggled up to Martin my thoughts were a jumble of discomfort, embarrasment, and powerful attraction. Outwardly I chuckled but as I stood behind Constance I had to wonder if she was feeling what I was. I witnessed Laura's chest grazing along Martin's arm and had to momentarily look away to distract myself and also to pretend I didn't notice, as was our custom with physical contact such as that.

Upon looking back, I couldn't look at Constance directly, but I sensed concern and an intriguing curiosity I hadn't seen in her before. Not exactly sure what I was expected to do I simply smiled at Laura and Martin, feeling quite glad that they were here. Laura asked Martin to tell an anecdote from her restaurant experience and I was anxious to hear it.

"Yes, please share with us, Martin. Marty." Summoning all the courage and whimsy that I could, I sat down with my wife and trepidatiously placed my arm around her shoulder as I sipped my Merlot cautiously.

 

[Xantham]

Marty

I gave Laura another little squeeze. If they wanted to hear about the sprained ankle, who was I to tell them no. Actually, I was gonna have to keep a few parts to myself, I didn't know this couple that well, yet.

"Well you see, back when I first met Laura, she was still workin' the lunch and dinner shifts at The Works. That's a little greasy spoon not too far from the factory and the crowd there would get pretty thick with factory workers. I think it was a Friday and I didn't know Laura too well, yet. I was comin' in for a bite to eat on my way home from work. You see, I used to eat out a lot...before Laura. There was a lot of guys I knew there and we were just shootin' the breeze.

One of the guys was a jackass named Larry. He thought he had a sense of humor, but all he really had was a sadistic streak. This jerk-off saw Laura about to pass our booth with a tray of food and he thought it would be a laugh-riot to squeeze some ketchup on the ground. Laura stepped in the ketchup and when her foot slipped, she tried to catch herself and turned her ankle.

This is the good part, when her leg buckled, she dumped the tray...right onto Larry and me. Then she fell into me."

I didn't tell them how when she fell, her uniform opened in such a way that I could see her breasts encased in a cute white bra. But Laura had seen where I was looking and she gave me one of looks that said, "What kind of ass are you, here I am injured and you take the time to look at my breasts." I'll never forget that look, and I plan never to make her give it to me again.

I continued the story, "Well, Larry didn't find it so funny once his lap was filled with somebody else's dinners. So he grabbed her hair and yanked her head back. I saw red. I remember clearly, he said 'You stupid bitch,' and when he pulled back his fist, I didn't hesitate. The ambulance brought Larry in when I was still at the hospital with Laura gettin' her ankle checked out. Her ankle wasn't broken, but Larry's wrist, jaw and three ribs were. He tried to get me booked on assault charges, but after Laura told her story, the judges turned around and slapped him with assault charges, ordering him to pay damages as well.

I felt sorry for what Larry had done, as though it was part my fault. So I told her I would help her until her ankle got better. And I did for the next three weeks. I would come over before work and make her breakfast and after work I would stop by and make her dinner and occasionally take her out. That was when I fell in love with her." I gently hugged Laura. I didn't add how I had to help her to the bathroom the first week and even once had to help her bathe. Laura tried her hardest to keep covered as I was putting her in the bath tub, but I caught glimpses. But that was another story.

"I'm sorry, I've been talkin' too much, " I mumbled, suddenly embarrassed at my long explanation. As usual, I tried to get over being embarrassed with a joke. "You know me, I'm supposed to be the strong, silent type. So I'll let someone else talk now." I took a long slug of beer to emphasize my point.

 

[Honey_B]

Marty

The silence was getting to me. Did this couple think my story sucked. Maybe they thought I was some kind of animal or something. I reached over and gribbed Laura's knee. Touching her always made me feel so much better.

 

[mars99]

Laura

I felt such pride as Marty so beautifully told his wonderful story. I was glad he left out some of the "naughtier" parts too. Marty had a tendency to get a little risque sometimes, especially when he was drinking. It would have been funny to see how Lawrence and Constance would have reacted though. They were such nice people for inviting us in here with them. It was sweet to see him put his arm around her too. It looked like they were loosening up a bit and it was SO nice to be out of those upright seats!

As Marty told his story I turned to him and nestled my head against his shoulder, looking up at him with adoration. He was my hero. This story was just one of so many he could have told about the things he had done for me. When he got to the part about visiting me in the hospital and taking care of me I began rubbing my hand across his strong chest, lost in the memories of how we gradually fell in love. His body was so strong and powerful, I always felt like no one could hurt me when he was around. He loved it when I stroked his chest like this. He said it made him feel all squishy inside. I smiled as my fingers grazed his cute little nipples.

When he reached the end of his story I looked over at the other couple, beaming with pride.

"Isn't he great? Lawrence, why don't you tell us a little about Constance. She's so beautiful. How were you lucky enough to find someone like her?"

 

[Xantham]

Constance

I very nearly dropped my glass. Not that it would have been much of a loss, I swear the questionable quality of the wine was only made worse when it was placed in these glasses. Plastic, uggh, almost would have been better.

What brought this on was Laura's comment. Now I often get called beautiful, but Laura said it so simply that, unlike the boors who repeat it in the hopes of currying my favor, I knew she meant it. Perhaps that was one of the things I found so charming about her. She was honest, forthright, and downright disarmingly friendly. I was touched that she found me attractive.

Now her husband, on the other hand, well, Marty's story touched me in a deeply personal way, as though I somehow were part of it, but what was interesting was how I responded to the sheer primal nature of it. Lawrence had never been in a fistfight over me, at least not that I knew of, and I could feel a sort of primal nerve that the story touched in me. Could it be that I wanted Lawrence to fight for my honor? I put that thought aside for the moment as I turned to Lawrence, "Well, my dear, have you an anecdote for our friends?"

 

[SexyChele]

Lawrence

My arm about my wife felt like such a strange act here in a public place....and yet, somehow, so right. I had felt her tense, knew she was not enjoying the public demonstrations that she usually regarded with such disdain. However, it felt good to feel the warmth of her radiating to me, and even if she felt slightly uncomfortable I was leaving it there.

Laura's comment about Constance beauty was very much an understatement. Though Constance knew she was a fine looking woman, she rarely accepted compliments well - she had received so many of them from people who only wanted something from her, she had learned to disregard them. Even the ones from me, it seemed.

Martin, er, Marty's story left me in a quandry. His earthy regard for the woman he loved. Battling for her honor, so to speak. Rough....yes. Common...yes. But the look in Laura's eyes sparked something within me. I wanted that look.....I wanted that look on Constance's face when she looked at me. But how?

Constance voice brought me back to reality....

"Ah, yes, well. Constance and I have not had quite the whirlwind romance you two have seemed to enjoy. You see, Constance and I practically grew up together. Our families are all part of the same...network shall we say? So Constance and I were much involved in the same circle of friends. Oh, we knew we would marry some one from the that circle, still..."

My mind wanders a bit, thinking of a tall blonde in a bikini beside the lake one summer. The first time I ever looked at Constance with a desire to have her. But she had a bevy of suitors that year, and I was a face among the crowd. The curious looks around me brought me back.

"Well, excuse me, I was simply musing there for a moment. One summer our group went to a lake for the weekend, and it was there that I first truly saw Constance as a woman."

My throat was constricting at this point. I had never been so honest and personal with strangers before. I could also feel Constance tense up, and knew I had to be careful.

"Laura, if you think Constance is beautiful now, you should have seen her that summer. She had more suitors than any woman could know what to do with.

"Well, I tried to become one of her suitors, but is was not an easy thing to stand out in the crowd, you understand. On another weekend, we were invited to a friend's country estate for riding. Constance is an excellent horse-woman, and I, well, I can hold my own with horses. We all started off, reaching full gallop in no time, taking on many obstacles along the....fences, low shrubs, creeks, the usual. I tried to stay close to Constance, but she was far in the lead of me. We rode for a while like that, when I saw her direct her horse to take a fence. Well, the horse balked, and Constance here was thrown. I saw what I had hoped was my moment to be a 'knight in shining armor', and quickly rode to her. She appeared to be alright, actually standing up before I got there. Well, I didn't want her to take any chances, and her horse was limping badly - he must have stumbled, you see. So I insisted on having Constance ride with me back to the house to make sure she was OK.

"Oh, she resisted at first, but finally decided she very well couldn't ride her own horse back. So I helped her up and then rode behind her. It was, shall we say, what got me noticed above all the other suitors in her life."

As I finished, I felt a little flush. I was not used to sharing that sort of information with anyone. Constance and I had talked of it on our honeymoon and then never mentioned it again. I looked over at Constance to see she was blushing profousely. She certainly was not used to having her personal life revealed.

Ah, well, it was out of the bag now...

 

[Xantham]

Lawrence

I looked over to gauge the reactions of Martin and Laura to my story. While Martin didn't seem particularly moved, at least he didn't seem to show anything, I did think Laura liked the part about the riding off together on horseback. Maybe it was something she'd always wanted to do. I felt a little tension in the air, maybe not bad tension, but something. I decided to get a second round for everyone.

"Ladies, sir, can I refresh all your drinks? My throat is particularly dry after that long tale."

 

[Honey_B]

Constance

"Yes, darling, another glass of wine, please," I said absently. My emotions at that moment could only be described as terribly confused. The evening had taken an interesting turn. At first I had disliked Lawrence's arm across my shoulder, feeling it was somehow inappropriate. As Martin's beautiful story unfolded, I felt myself relax and even leaned into Lawrence a little. The close proximity to my husband felt good even though we were in public. Getting to know this extraordinary couple seemed to be having an effect on me.

It did not help me from becoming embarrassed by Lawrence's story. My discomfort seemed wrong, however. After all, what did I truly have to be ashamed about? I forced myself to smile as I looked at my husband. The smile became genuine as I gazed into his eyes. He had not looked at me like that since, well, our honeymoon... or maybe I just never looked at him the way I was doing now. Something primal passed between us and I placed my hand on his knee. A loud shout came from the back of the car and the spell was broken.

I realized that Martin and Laura were looking at me intently. "Tonight does seem the night for stories, does not it?" I began awkwardly. "I suppose it is my turn."

I desperately searched for something amusing and light. Nothing immediately came to mind. I settled on a topic that I had never before considered in the context of casual conversation.

"What Lawrence does not know about that weekend is that it was quite contrived... by me." I caught the surprised look in Lawrence's eyes. "Yes, Lawrence, it was I who convinced Buffy Walingford to invite you. You never knew this, but despite all my suitors, I had had only eyes for you."

I stopped and looked at Martin and Laura. "You see, my upbringing did not really allow me to express my interest in an obvious way. Instead, I thought of a weekend with friends where Lawrence and I would surely be thrown together. Sure enough when my horse stumbled, the opportunity arose." I stopped and looked up at my husband, as I said, "I was so blissfully happy when you came riding up on your horse. You were my knight." I replaced my hand on his knee and gave him a squeeze.

 

[SexyChele]

Laura

As I listened to Lawrence's story, I was enchanted. I am a HUGE romantic, and, though the story wasn't brimming with passion, still it was how 2 people had met who ultimately fell in love and married.

When Constance added her part, my heart did melt a little. I smiled at both of them...

"Oh wonderful to have a real knight come riding up on a horse! Oh, that story was beautiful! And, Constance, how devious - - but I love it!"

It seemed that there was something going on with this couple. I noticed when Lawrence put his arm around his wife, she stiffened before allowing herself to make herself at ease. Even when Lawrence was speaking I noticed she seemed a little embarassed. Now, it seemed as though a transformation was occuring, but I couldn't place my finger on it....

I nodded at Lawrence suggestion for another drink. At this rate, I would fall asleep easily anywhere.

I snuggled more deeply into Marty, enjoying the smell and feel of him, as I always did. I felt his arm tighten around me, and I surged with the feeling of being so safe and protected. Leaning up to his ear, I gently whispered...

"I love you, honey"

Before settling back.

It seemed, somehow, in this short span of time, that the 4 of us had somehow grown my intimate. An awkwardness and at the same time a sense of comfort came over us. Not wanting the moment to pass.

"So, what is it like to have a nice sleeping berth on these trains? Is it like the movies?"

 

[mars99]

Marty

I was relieved when Lawrence started tellin' his story, mainly cause it took the attention off me. I wasn't real comfortable talkin' around people too much but I was always glad to talk about Laura cause I knew she liked it. I thought I mighta gone too far with the violence in my story though. I forgot these people probably weren't used to that kinda stuff. Fighting was second nature to me though so I just talked freely about it. Anyway, when Lawrence started talkin' I was still thinkin' about my story and was a little charged up by Laura's hand on my chest so I kinda missed the first part of his story. I might of looked like I wasn't interested but I was. It just took me a minute to get focused.

I picked it up when he started talkin' about how he'd helped her after she fell off the horse. I was lookin' over at Constance while he was talkin'. She seemed to be a little nervous or something but also seemed to be real happy and proud underneath like she really loved him. I was moved by the look in her eyes when she looked at him, really, I was. That was the first moment I thought that she was a beautiful woman. She had been so cold before but her face lit up for just a second and I really thought there was somethin' real nice inside her. Believe me, when you're raised by a woman as beautiful as my Ma, you know how to recognize beauty in a woman, and I was lucky enough to be sittin' here with two of them.

Constance told her part of the story real nicely and I was gettin' real comfortable, sippin' on my second beer and pullin' my little sweetheart closer to me. I smiled and nodded with pleasure at the two of them and heard Laura's voice comin' at me like a slice of heaven. "I love you, honey" she said and almost melted my heart right out of my chest. "I love you too, baby" I said back and kissed her on her forehead. For the first time since we'd been on this train, I was able to get my mind off of Ma. Laura and I hadn't been intimate in a couple of days and it was gettin' to both of us. My hand drifted down to her butt and I rubbed it softly as she asked them about the sleeping berth. Things were gettin' interesting...

 

[mars99]

Constance

Oh, mercy! Martin and Laura seemed to be getting quite cozy with each other. Ordinarily, I'd be a bit taken aback by their affection, but I was feeling a bit frisky myself, what with the wine and Lawrence's newfound boldness with me. I felt Martin's gaze fall on me for a moment and took a second to admire him and the dear creature in his arms. I felt more relaxed than I had in I don't know how long.

I chuckled at Laura's question. "Well, it's not exactly like the movies, dear, but it beats sleeping on the floor." I giggle at my own whimsy. "Perhaps the two of you would like to take a look at ours? That would be OK, wouldn't it Lawrence?"

With the look I gave my husband, he wouldn't dare disagree.