Thy Preacher's Wife

[angelique127]

* This story takes place in a small, sleepy southern town called Luxury, South Carolina. Sadly to say, not much goes on in Luxury, the main events center around the church, with sermons on Sunday's of course, but otherwise it is pretty boring...although most of the citizens enjoy their old fashioned values and are content in the seclusion, they have no crime to speak of, and no such problems of the big city. Everyone knows each other, the people are very friendly, and almost everyone attends the church...which includes the males too, if not just to catch a glimpse of the preacher's wife, Jessica Ryan.

Jessica is a beautiful woman, with a religous upbringing, twentyfive years of age, has long golden brown, wavey hair, brown eyes, and a perfect body made for sin, although she wouldn't dream of it, being married to the preacher himself. She is and always has been faithful, her husband, Duke Allen Ryan wouldn't tolerate anything less, and besides they both are dedicated to the church and their Baptist religion. Jessica arranges the fundraiser's and several different charities, bake sales and is the welcome commitee for the few new residents that move to Luxury, enticing them to become members of the church.

Still, it is not easy being married to the preacher, he is a man who expects total devotion, and does not tolerate anything other than what the bible says. One does not listen to music of the devil, rock music especailly, and is usually on a crusade to stop the wages of sin...pornograhpy being another of his main objectives. Duke Allen Ryan is bound and determined to rid his town of evil influences...

Jessica, meanwhile, plays the faithful, dutiful wife...surpressing her true desires and dreams of a better life. Married at the age of seventeen, she has known no other man but her somewhat cold, unaffectionate, and unattentive husband...

But things may be about to change...with the arrival of a stranger who moves into town. He is an ex convict, with a bad reputation, and a chip on his shoulder. He also, once he meets Jessica, would like nothing more than make her betray herself and corrupt her rightous morals.
Pm only, if intersted in playing a character, as all roles have not been filled yet...female and male roles needed !

 

[sharingfantasies]

Savannah

Savannah Grayson leaned against her car, arms crossed over her chest. The Luxury Creek trickled under the bridge, colored brown by the South Carolina clay. The sun beat heavily down on the earth, making shimmering mirages dance on the blacktop road.

Savannah's narrowed emerald green eyes were focused on the white building not far from where she was parked. The steeple rose high in the air, even taller than the one she remembered. She had heard that a hurricane had taken down the old one and the "good" people of Luxury, wanting to show their religious fervor, had rebuilt it twice as tall. Now the steeple looked out of proportion, making it seem as if it was going to topple at any moment. In Savannah's mind it looked like a long middle finger sticking up at God. She gave a short grunt of humor as she imagined God's face when he looked down at this oh so righteous town.

The Baptist Church had been standing on that corner of the town since 1820, when a group of hot, weary English settlers had stumbled upon the creek and throwing themselves into the cool water had heard one of them cry out, "Ahhh, now this is Luxury." Or at least that was the story that had been passed around for almost three hundred years. Eight years ago, the Preacher Lowell had retired, and the current Preacher had taken his place. Good looking, cold hearted, Duke Allen Ryan. Even when she thought his name it came out hard and bitter.

Duke Allen Ryan, football hero, ace student, President of the Yearbook Committee and Savannah's boyfriend. She had been 17 and thought she was living the All American Dream. Head cheerleader, Homecoming Queen, and thought by everyone to be the luckiest person in town. After all she had snagged Duke Allen Ryan, hadn't she? Not only was he God's gift to the world in the town's eyes and his, but he was going to be a preacher and his goals were to attend the seminary school in Charleston, then return to Luxury to lead the flock towards heaven. Savannah must have heard him say that a thousand times while they were seniors in high school.

But Duke Allen Ryan was not the All American boy, or if he was, then God save this country. Duke Allen Ryan had a hidden side. One that he didn't show to the good folks of Luxury. No, this side he had kept quiet then, just as he kept it quiet now. But Savannah knew about that side of Duke Allen Ryan, she had learned it first hand. What he had done to her, had banished her from her home, her family, her life. It had taken her twelve years, but she was back in Luxury with her own plans for the local Preacher.

The bell rang indicating the service was over, and the doors were thrown open as children first spilled out of the building. Savannah watched as the Preacher and his wife stood in the doorway, shaking hands and thanking people for coming. As if the citizens of Luxury felt they had a choice. Those English men had been seaching for somewhere to start their own town where they could raise their families in the teachings of John the Baptist, and not the teachings of the Church of England. The people of Luxury had not heard of religious freedom, there was one religion and one church and if you lived here, you worshipped the Luxury way.

When most of the people had left, Savannah got back into her car. Turning on the air conditioning, she sighed. Lifting her ebony hair off her neck, she let the fan blow cool air across her neck. There was no place more uncomfortable than South Carolina in the summer. Sitting in her car, she watched the Preacher turn to his beautiful young wife and say something that turned down the corners of her mouth. Apparently not all was roses and sunshine in the Ryan marriage. But then who would expect it to be, poor Jessica. Savannah was sure that Jessica had had no idea of her husband's other side when she agreed to marry him. She wondered if Jessica was aware of it even now.

Savannah took one more look at the couple on the church steps, then turned the car around and headed for the motel where she had checked in last night. She had used her real name and she knew that by afternoon everyone in Luxury would know that Savannah Leigh Grayson was back in town.

 

[makofin]

Duke Allen Ryan- Sunday afternoon

Duke shook everyone's hand as they exited the church, wishing them well.


" Thank you for attending the service, and may God be with you , brother, and your family. Don't forget about the picnic next week, following the Sunday services. Plenty of fried chicken and potatoe salad for everyone ! "

" One of the best sermon's I've heard in years, preacher ! " an older man congratulated him. " Just a tribute to God, friend ! " Duke answered.

He smiled, wishing him the best. He glanced down at his obediant wife, Jessica, who was busy thanking everyone for coming also, watching as the old fart gripped her hand too, not wanting to let go too soon. It was kind of amusing, observing the male sheep, as he referred to them, fawn all over his loyal wife. She was, beyond a doubt, the most beautiful female in town, and dedicated to Jesus besides.

The last of the flock left the church, and Duke couldn't wait to count the day's donations. He had encouraged them to dig deep, sacrifice their hard labor and give in the name of God, after all, their reward awaited in heaven, and the only way to get there was to donate while you were here on earth .It would be too late once you reached the pearly gates, as he was so fond of saying !

" Jessica, my dear, I have a mission for you. It seems we have a new person in town, and you know how important it is to make him a member of our church." Duke said, wrapping his arm around his wife, as he led her inside. He gave her two hours to meet with this person, and reminded her that he expected the traditional Sunday dinner of pot roast, with all the trimmings, on the table by five o'clock.

Jessica nodded, and dressed in her Sunday best, left the church.

Duke retired to his air-conditioned office, in the rear of the church. He opened the drawer to his desk and took out his hidden bottle of bourbon. Spirits were forbidden in Luxury, as a matter of fact the whole county was dry, one had to drive to the next wet county to procure some. He toasted today's fiery sermon, reflecting that it had been successful by filling the collection plates until they nearly overflowed with money.

He looked at his rolex, in an hour Duke had a meeting with the recently widowed Mrs. Jane Bartlett. Her husband, bless his soul, had passed, leaving his young, and very attractive wife alone. It was Duke's duty to console the grieving lady.
It was truely amazing how vurnable a young lady could be while in mourning, and how grateful !

 

[Blue Dolphin]

OOC
thank you for allowing me to join you Angelique

Luke Lancombe
29 years old, 5 foot 9, brown wavy hair, with brown eyes also.
Well built, has worked out while in prison.
Has been sent to Luxury on parole, after serving 8 years in the State Pen, for breaking the legs (in several places) of the drunk driver who killed his Mom.

IC

I sit in my room, in this seedy little hotel, just a bed and a chair, but still, it is much better than that stinking cell I was in yesterday. 8 years and 242 days I was in that hell hole, fighting to stay alive most of it. And for what, for putting things right, that is all, that guy was an animal, with no regard for anyone, well, I showed him, even if I did have to pay for it.

But, what now? My parole officer said I have to stay here, keep out of trouble, and report to him twice a week. He will try to find me a job even.

"Hell yeah, they are going to be queueing up to employ me arent they?"

I told him, but he seemed to think it would be ok. I guess that I will just have to wait and see. He also told me that the local church people will call on me. Like I need that! Religion did me no good in prison, why the hell should this place be any different?

I settle down on the bed, to read one of the books the parole officer gave me. I cannot concentrate though, it has been so long, I want to go out, see the town, but, I have no money, and have to be back in my room by seven.

 

[angelique127]

Jessica

Her blue Mustang was like an oven, and I rolled down the windows until the air began to blow cold. I put my hair up on top of my head, securing it there with a pearl barrett, getting it off the back of my neck, as I was beginning to perspire. Before putting the car in drive, I took off my white heels, placing them on the seat beside me. I wanted to remove my stockings too, but that would have to wait until the meeting was over, Duke always wanted me look my best for recruiting new members into the church.

Finally, as the car started to cool off, I thought about the conversation I had yesterday with a certain Donald Mc Gee, a parole officer for the state of South Carolina, about a fellow who was on parole for murder. I was wary...he sounded dangerous, but when Donald told me all the details, I agreed that this gentleman might be able to be saved, in the eyes of the Lord. He deserved a second chance.

Of course, Duke wasn't aware of any of this yet, and he might not be as forgiving...

I pulled into the parking lot of the Sunset Motel, which had seen better days, and parked my little ol' Mustang. Getting out of the car, I stepped into my heels, and adjusted my plain, white silk, knee length skirt and blouse. Looking around, I notice only one other car in the lot, one I've never seen before, which is odd because I thought I knew everyone in Luxury, and I know Mr. Lancombe doesn't have one yet. Thinking nothing of it, I walk towards room twenty-four.

I knock on the door, laughing to myself, and hoping no one sees me here, it could cause a major scandal, the good Preachers wife seen entering the motel room of a stranger ! It would be all over town within minutes !

The door opens, and a very handsome, well built man is standing there. I'm not sure what I was expecting, but I did not expect him to be so good looking. Although not very tall, his arms, and what I could see of his chest{ he was wearing a tank top} were huge and muscled, and I noticed a tatoo of what I thought was a wicked snake on his shoulder.

" I'm sorry to disturb you, my name is Jessica Ryan, from the church...May I speak with ya' all for a moment ? "

I wondered how much resistance I was about to encounter. He certainly didn't appear to be the church going type...

 

[Blue Dolphin]

I hear the knock on the door, wondering who it can be as I open it, but I keep my guard up, just in case. I am greeted by a vision in white, a young woman, around my age I reckon.
A little unsure as to what is going on I just look at her.

" I'm sorry to disturb you, my name is Jessica Ryan, from the church...May I speak with ya' all for a moment ? "

I hear the word church, and remember. that McGee guy said something about the church. I quickly gather myself together, and figure out something to say. it has been a very long time since I was this close to a female, and I struggle for words, but I do manage to say to her.

"Did Mr McGee send you, he said something about the church when he brought me here?"

 

[sharingfantasies]

Savannah

Savannah was packing up her few things when she heard a car pull up into the lot. Since this was the only motel in Luxury, anyone passing through wanting to stay the night had to stop here. She placed the last of her clothing in the bag and zipped it shut. As she walked outside to put her bag in her car, she heard a door close. Glancing over her shoulder, whoever had closed the door was to let someone in, not out, she saw a blue Mustang.

"Looks like the one little ole Jessica Ryan drives, but the chances of her being here are about a gazillion to one," she thought. "Besides Mustangs are not exclusive to Preacher's wives."

She went into the lobby and checked out, thanking Maribelle Sanders for the room. Maribelle just sniffed and took the key, so Savannah shrugged and left. Getting into her car, she turned the a/c up high and rolled down the window. Then pulling out of the parking lot she headed for the downtown area.

Savannah was in town for two reasons, one was revenge, but the other one was to settle her Aunt Syvie's estate. Aunt Syvie was the one person that had kept in touch with Savannah when she had been exiled. Even her parents had titled her a pariah, shipping her off to a special home for wayward females. But Aunt Sylvie had written every week, things about the townspeople, things about the family, and things about Duke Allen Ryan. Savannah's face turned grim.

Now her aunt had passed on and left her house and a fairly large amount of money to Savannah, on the condition that Savannah come take care of the details herself and spend at least a month in the house before deciding to stay or sell. Savannah would put in the month for Sylvie's sake, but then the house was on the market. Savannah would donate the proceeds to a one of Sylvie's charities.

But for now, Savannah needed to meet with Liam Taylor, her aunt's lawyer and pick up the keys and sign several papers.

 

[angelique127]

Jessica

" Did Mr. Mc Gee send you, he said something about the church when he brought me here ? "

I smiled, dispite that I was wilting from the heat. " I would like to think that the good Lord sent me, but yes, Mr. Mc Gee informed me of your situation. " I answered, waiting to be invited inside the air-conditioned room. " May I come in, it is so very hot out here, I may begin to melt ? " I repeated my request.

Luke Lancombe stepped aside, allowing me to enter. Once inside, I stood in front of the blasting air- conditioner for a few moments, cooling off. Luke sat on the bed, leaving the only chair open, but not inviting me to sit down. Finally, I took it upon myself, and sat down, crossing my legs.

" My...I am just dying of thirst, would you happen to have any ice water ? " I asked hopefully, really wanting a glass of lemonade, but I knew that was probably out of the question.

Luke just looked at me, making no move to fetch me a glass of water. I was growing uncomfortable with each passing second, and not just because of his lack of manners, but the way he was staring at me. I sensed that he resented my presense, and really wasn't interested in religious matters at all.

I decided to forego my usual spiel, about the importance of attending church, and concentrate on his immediate problems, such as being recently released from prison, and how hard it may be to find a job, his current lack of funds...

" ...try to think of it as a brand new start in our community, and a chance to redeem yourself. Maybe by going to church, when you are ready, will show others you are making an honest attempt to adapt and conform. I know you may not believe, after what has happened, but ...in the end, you might find forgiveness."

Luke listened silently, and then got up and put some ice in a glass and filled it with water, handing it to me.

" Thank you, Luke. You are aware that name Luke comes from the bible."

He smiled, seeming to relax.

" Listen...I want to help, if I can. My husband and I, the good Preacher, Duke Allen, were thinking of hiring a handyman around the church, and at our home, we need a few things done. While it will not pay the best, it may hold you over until you can find something better."

I looked around the sparse furnished room. He would need a place to stay also...their was the cottage on our property, down by the river...

" If you drop by, we do have a small cottage out back, you might want to look at ! It needs some minor repairs though. " I offered, and for some reason hoped he wouldn't refuse...

 

[Blue Dolphin]

All that I could do at first was stare at this Jessica Ryan, watchig her, seeing her standing in front of the A/C. Her clothes being blown tight against her body.

I had not been this close to a female in over 9 years, her smell, her very presence in the room had me mesmerised. I vaguely remembered that she had asked for water, and a little late, I offer her some, with ice. Listening intently now, as she speaks about my future, and paying my debt to society.

" If you drop by, we do have a small cottage out back, you might want to look at ! It needs some minor repairs though. "

I must admit, I like the sound of that, I was thinking to myself, knowing that if I did not say something soon, she would probably leave.
I speak quietly,

"Mrs Ryan, please forgive me, for my awkwardness, and seeming lack of interest. That is not the case, let me assure you, it is just that...well... it is a difficult here for me. As you are well aware, I have spent many years solely in the company of men, some of them real bad men too. Then, I am lucky enough to get parole, and I am thrust out into the wide world, not knowing a soul. Wondering what, if anything, I can do with my life."

I pause for a moment, feeling tongue tied, and a little embarassed also.

"You have come here, to offer me a chance it seems, and I really do appreciate that, its just.... well, you are the first woman I have been alone in a room with for so long, and I dont know how to act. I am sorry, you must think that I have no manners, I do, I really do, its just, I feel so foolish right now, I am sorry."

I can feel her looking at me, yet I still feel somewhat intimidated, and look at the floor. My voice almost drops to a whisper.

"Yes Mrs Ryan, I would like to help with the cottage, I have a little experience in construction, from my time in the Big House. Thank you Mrs Ryan."

 

[makofin]

Duke Allen Ryan

Duke smiled to himself, remembering the way the young widow Bartlet looked under him, her nice black stockinged legs wrapped around him, so desperate and willing, how wet and ready, like she hadn't been fucked in years. She had been easy to seduce into sin, but then, most women were nothing but whores deep down inside, and once you controlled them, they would spread their legs for you without much of a fuss, like the good little sheep they were, doing their duty for God, or at least for the sacred, charming, and sauve preacherman ! Ha- ha.

His cell phone went off, on the seat next to him, and he answered it, expecting it to be Jessica, his sweet, obediant angel of a wife, but it was Liam Taylor, an attorney and faithful servant of the church.

" Duke, you won't believe WHO just paid a visit to my office."

" Liam, what are you doing working on the Sabbath ? "

" Well, it was totally unexpected...and it didn't take very long." Liam paused...

" God forbid, who was it ? " Duke asked, impatient now, only wanting to get home and eat supper, cool off in the pool and not deal with anymore problems today.

" Savannah Grayson. "

It took a second for the name to register, but when it did, he slammed on the brakes, coming to a full stop in the middle of the road.

" WHO ? It can't be, she wouldn't dare evah come back hear ! " Duke yelled, losing his composure and shocked at just hearing her name mentioned again. Bewildered, he thanked Liam before disconnecting. Duke sat there, breathing heavy, starting to sweat, the memories returning !

It couldn't be possible. She would never come back here, after what had happened. Maybe she wanted revenge, Savannah was NOT the forgiving type ! She was trouble with a capital T...and one of the most beautiful females he had ever known. Duke thought, trying to remain calm.

Duke Allen sat there, his past catching up with him...

 

[sharingfantasies]

Savannah

The visit with Liam Taylor had gone well, although he had seemed a bit uptight. But Savannah had signed all the papers, been given a key to Sylvie's house and box at the bank. She assumed that the box had all the deeds and other important papers of Sylvie's life, she would need to reregister the deed so she would go by the bank tomorrow.

It had been good of Mr. Taylor to open up on Sunday, but when he contacted her, he made it seem as if it was extremely important that they meet immediately. Savannah hadn't cared one way or the other but having the key to the house meant moving in sooner.

She wasn't sure what kind of shape the house was in, it had been sitting empty for a while. Savannah hadn't been told about her aunt's death until a month afterwards when Liam Taylor had called to see when she was going to come collect the keys. Apparently he had assumed that her parents would notify her that Sylvie had died and that Savannah was in the will. She had wondered why she hadn't heard from Sylvie lately but assumed that Sylvie was busy. Savannah had been hurt by her parents' continued opinion that their daughter had died and was no longer with the family. In a way she sort of understood, after all this was a small town and in the south appearances were everything, but still a part of her also felt that instead of banishing her, they should have stood by her. So since she was not able to attend the funeral, she hadn't rushed down to claim the place. Now four months later, she was ready to face Luxury again. She had called her aunt's lawyer, and been told to meet him this Sunday. Having met Liam Taylor, she assumed the rush was his percentage of Aunt Sylvie's estate.

"Okay Savannah, get out of the car and go see what your new home is like."

Stepping out of the car, she was immediately swamped in the thick humidity of the day. She brush her hair out of her face, gripped the key tightly in her right hand and approached the house. As she reached the porch level she was assailed by memories; making molasses cookies, barbecues in the backyard, her parents chiding Sylvie because she was too forward thinking when she bought a computer, there had been sad times but mostly she had loved growing up here. She hadn't really planned to leave Luxury. She figured she had to to go to college up in the capital, but afterwards, she planned to come home get married to Duke Allen, support him in his efforts for the church, and have a few little Ryans running around. She had planned to take some bible study classes, maybe some business classes, maybe even get her teaching degree and help the citizens of Luxury come into the twentieth century.

She smiled grimly, things don't always go according to plans. She opened the door, it was hot and musty inside. She tried the light switch, not expecting it to work, but apparently no one had notified the electric company. Although she wondered who was paying the bill. Grateful that she wouldn't be in the dark, she began to bring her things in. Wandering around the familiar house, she began to make a list of things that she needed to do: repaint the livingroom, air out the mattresses, clean everything, the door to the master bedroom stuck, the gas needed to be turned on. There was only cold water coming out of either pipe, etc. When she was finished she had a list of several things to do, and first on the list was grocery shpping. Again she was thankful that the electricity meant the refrigerator was still on and cold. Someone, her parents or the neighbors had made sure the refrigerator was cleaned out, so there was no mold inside. Nodding to herself, "This is doable." She headed for Bishop's Market. She had seen a giant Walmart on the skirts of town but she preferred to spend a little more and support the mom and pop stores in town.

 

[angelique127]

Jessica...Sunday evening

I put the pot roast on the table, next to the taters and gravy, and hurried to take the bisquits out of the oven before they burned. My husband could be very fussy about his food, demanding perfection, nothing under or over cooked, and after seven years of marriage, I knew just how to please him !

Sunday's were always specail...and I couldn't wait to tell him the good news, about the young man, Luke Lacombe, who may be ready to give his life over to the Lord Jesus, given the chance ! Duke was always estatic, to convert one over to the ways of the Lord !

The minute Duke walked in the door, though, I could tell something was wrong. He didn't bother to kiss me, or even look at me, he just sat down at the table, his attitude aloof...and cold. I knew, through experience, not to press the matter, and to be on my best behavior. When Duke got like this, he reminded me of a time bomb, about to go off. Duke said grace, as he always did before every meal.

We ate in silence, at least Duke wasn't complaining, until I decided to inform him of the day's events...

" I met with the new person, he seems like a very good prospect."

" Really."

" Yes...can you believe he has spent eight years in prison ! "

Duke exploded , slamming his fork down, his face contorted in anger...he started yelling about convicts, how they were nothing more than sinners, going on and on, saying they belonged in jail, and not out on the streets commiting crimes on humanity...preying upon the decent, hard working folks !

I could only sit there, stunned and in shock...I hated when he got like this, which wasn't very often, but still, I was actually very frightened...

My husband knocked his plate on the floor, with his arm, side swiping it, before getting up and stomping off to his study, muttering curses, using improper language, and acting like a crazed maniac ! I heard the door slam with a loud bang and the deadbolt slam home !

I fought the tears, not wanting to cry, after all, I had done nothing wrong...I spent my life trying to please him, giving up so much to make Duke happy...always being the good, faithful, obediant wife, putting everyone else ahead of my own needs...

* * * * * - - - - - - * * * * * - - - - - - - * * * * *


Later that night, I was sleeping, naked, as I always did in the summer, covered by a thin silk sheet, when Duke woke me and apoligized. He also told me to call the convict tommorrow, and invite him over for lunch, that he had overreacted, and everyone, no matter who, deserved to be saved....

 

[Blue Dolphin]

Monday morning

I am surprised when the phone rings in my room, that being the last thing that I expect. I figure it must be Mr McGee, checking up on me, so soon as well. But, to my great surprise, it is Mrs Ryan, inviting me to lunch.

I am not sure if I should accept or not, I feel so uncomfortable around her, but, it was McGee who sent her to me, and, she is from the church. My only problem is that I have no means of getting there.

"Thank you for the kind offer of lunch Mrs Ryan, but it does leave me with a slight problem. I have no idea where you live, or even how to get there. I would take a cab, but, as you know, I have no funds for that either, until I find work."

I wait, wondering what she will say.

 

[angelique127]

Jessica... Monday morning

When I awoke, I saw that I was alone, but Duke usually rose early, so I wasn't surprised by his absence. I remembered his apology at his outburst, and his offer to invite Luke Lacombe over for lunch. Eventually I got dressed, choosing to wear a light, cotton sundress, and made my way downstairs to start breakfast.

As I passed the study, I heard my husbands voice, and I assumed he was talking on the phone, I did overhear him say " I need to take care of this situation as soon as possible", so I didn't want to disturb him by saying good morning, while he was involved in one of his many business deals.

Starting breakfast meant frying the bacon, cutting the potatoes, cooking the grits and slicing the cheese for an omelette. Every other day though, I would serve pancakes and sausage, or bisquits and gravy, but always grits, Duke loved them each and every morning !
While slaving over the stove, Duke came into the kitchen and kissed my cheek..." Good morning, Angel " he smiled, last night forgotten it seemed. He informed me that he was going upstairs to dress.

I decided to call Luke, I had been thinking about him, and Duke had given me permission to help him, so I dailed the motel number...Luke answers, and I remind him of our lunch date, but he explains his predictament, lack of funds and transportation.

" Well Mr. Lacombe, you just hop yourself in a taxi, and I will gladly take care of it when you arrive. "

Their is a pause, and I can tell he is thiking it over, so I add, " If you are worried about taking charity, just consider it an advance on your wages, if you decide to accept the job we offered. "

He agrees, and I tell him to come by at one o'clock. We say goodbye and disconnect.

I wonder if Luke Lacombe is looking forward to lunch as much as I am. The man is very intriguing in a certain sort of way...

 

[sharingfantasies]

Savannah

Savannah woke up stiff. The night before she had gone shopping, then stayed up late trying to make a dent in the dust covering the entire place. So far, she had made the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom livable.

Yawning, she rolled over and looked at the clock. It was almost ten am. She hadn't slept that late in a long time. Sliding out of the bed, she made a mental note to purchase a new mattress, she did some stretching exercises to ease the stiffness in her shoulders and back. Cleaning house used muscles Savannah didn't use that often. At home she had a cleaning service come in, and did her exercising at the gym. Making another mental note to see which machines at the gym would work on the muscles that ached, she headed for the shower.

Today she wanted to clean the livingroom, and find someone to make some of the repairs that were needed. She also needed to see about a gardener, the bushes and grass was overgrown. Since it was Monday, she could also go to the bank to see what was in Sylvie's box there.

Toasting a bagel and drinking some grapefruit juice gave Savannah the energy to drive to the bank. She decided to also pick up the local paper, see what was in the work wanted section.

She assumed the Ryans' knew she was in town, and wondered what reaction Duke Allen had when he found out. She smiled to herself. She bet it wasn't good.

 

[Blue Dolphin]

" Well Mr. Lacombe, you just hop yourself in a taxi, and I will gladly take care of it when you arrive. If you are worried about taking charity, just consider it an advance on your wages, if you decide to accept the job we offered. "

I thank her, and put down the phone, as I sit on my bed, wondering what the day will be like. I am nervous, it has been a long time since I sat down to a proper lunch. That stuff in jail could not be described as food, it was just basic, enough to keep us going. And as to the surroundings, well, the less said about that the better.

A feeling of sadness comes over me, and my eyes start to water a little, as I remember, the last time I sat down to lunch with a family. A Sunday lunch, with my Mom, and my then girlfriend, Petra, now long since out of my life. I remember how we laughed, how the room was filled with love and affection, as I start to cry.

After we had eaten, Petra and I told mom that we would clear away, and wash the dishes, while she took her pet corgi Ceaser for a walk. That was the last time I saw her alive, smiling and waving as she went out. Her and Ceaser, off to their deaths, and the hands of a drunk.

I started to get worried when she had not returned after an hour, Petra was saying that maybe she had stopped by to see some friends, yet, I had a sense of foreboding about me. Then the police came, asking me to sit down, because thay had some bad news for me. I guess that there is no easy way to tell someone that kind of thing, and the officer just came straight out with it.

"I am sorry Mr Lancombe, but your Mom has had an accident, a bad one. I am afraid that she has died, along with your dog, they were crossing the highway, and a car swerved, they had no chance I am afraid."

I sit silently sobbing, the memories still so vivid, even after all this time. But I know that I have to stop it, for I must move on, and become a real person again. I deicde to shower, and try to find something suitable to wear, from my meagre wardrobe.

****

At 12.45, I call a cab, and give the driver the address that I wish to go to, explaining that the lady there will pay him when we arrive.

 

[makofin]

Duke Allen

Duke didn't sleep, except for a couple of hours on the sofa in the study. He did have a change of heart, realizing that he shouldn't have reacted the way he did towards his wife, earlier at dinner. He always encouraged Jessica to recruit new members into the church, to increase the flock of worshippers, but his anger of hearing about Savannah Grayson returning to town, got the best of him.

If Jessica wanted to try to convert the convicted murderer over to God, and save him, so be it, but personally, Duke thought she was wasting her time. But this convict might be very useful to have around in the near future.

Duke could smell the bacon cooking, and knew Jessica was awake and in the kitchen doing her duty. He ended his conversation with the sheriff, who promised to find out if Savannah had any warrants out on her. Liam had provided him with some information, that Savannah's aunt had died, and that she was staying at her house after an inheritance. How long Savannah planned to stay in town was anybody's guess, but as far as Duke was concerned, she had already wore out her welcome.

The preacher went into the kitchen, and kissed his wife, excusing himself to go upstairs and dress before breakfast was served. Usually Mondays were considered his day off, but today was going to be a busy day. He had alot of things to take care off. His very existance was being threatened, not to mention his marriage, and Duke wasn't about to lose everything he had worked for, his house alone was worth a million dollars, their cars were brand new, and most importantly, Duke wasn't going to lose the respect of the whole town of Luxury, it was HIS town, as were the people who lived in it !

 

[sharingfantasies]

Savannah

Three hours later and Savannah was pleased. She had been to the bank and discovered that Sylvie had kept the usual papers there: birth certificate, deed to the house, a small savings bond, and surprisingly an envelope with Savannah's name. She had opened the letter to find another sealed envelope and a short note,"Dear Savannah, if you are reading this, then I am gone. I want you to know how much I missed you and how much I loved you. What happened to you was wrong, both the actions of your parents and the Ryans. I hope that you were able to build a wonderful life for yourself. I tried to keep in touch with you as best I could. Believe me when I tell you, you were always cared about. Enclosed is a letter that I believe will help you deal with the past. Do not open it. Take it to Charleston and give it to a Mr. Steven Brown. His address is on the front of the envelope. He will help you to recover your life. Trust him. You have met Liam Taylor or you wouldn't have had the key to this box, do not trust him. He is a crony of Duke Ryan's. He is however a reasonable attorney and I could trust him to contact you and give you what I left for you, the key for this box, the right to the property and the house that sits on it, and a small savings account. I knew he would do this, because I paid him enough to make it worth his time. Plus, I knew he would go running to Duke Ryan as soon as he opened the letter and learned that you would be staying in town. I may be dead, but you can believe, that I looked down with glee when I saw the look on Duke Ryan's face when her found out you were back in town. Do what you need to, dear Savannah, but remember to also look to the future. Be safe, be well, and keep faith. Love, Aunt Sylvie."

Savannah had turned the envelope over several times but there was no way to know what was inside without opening it. So she tucked it into her bag, and put the other papers back in the box. Then she had purchased a paper from the box on the street corner in front of the bank. Making one more stop at Wilson's furniture store, she had purchased a new box spring and mattress for the king size bed and received a promise for a delivery later that afternoon. The bank teller and the clerk at the store were new to Luxury since she had lived there, and didn't seem to show much interest in her other than what they would show any stranger in a small town.

Satisfied with what she had accomplished so far, Savannah had headed for home. After changing from the sundress she had worn into town, into a pair of shorts and a tank top she opened the paper and read the job wanted section. In the paper she found the names of a couple of local handy men that were willing to do the gardening and small repairs and could start the next day.

She cleaned the livingroom, took a shower to wash off the dust and grime and sweat, and then chopped up some vegetables to stir fry for lunch. As she was eating her lunch, she making a list of things she wanted to add or replace to the house. It was an old Victorian style home, which had been built by one of Savannah's great great something or another relatives. From the looks of the furniture, it was still the same pieces he had hand sawn and made from scratch.
On her list she added "check to see if there is an antique furniture specialist in the area". If Savannah was going to fix up the place to sell it, she was going to have to modernize the place.

After cleaning up the kitchen, Savannah decided it was time to take a break. Taking some cleaning supplies out to the front porch, she washed the dirt and spiderwebs off the old porch swing. Spraying it with some wd-40, she soon had the chair swaying silently in its old metal frame. Back inside, she washed her hands, poured a glass of sweet iced tea and picked up the newspaper.

Then, she plopped herself down on the front porch swing. With one long leg curled up under her and the other one swaying the swing, Savannah drank her tea and read the paper from front to back, catching up with all the news and gossip that had filled this week's paper. Although she seemed totally engrossed iin her paper, she was aware of the townsfolk passing by the house, whispering to each other and hurrying on. She smiled, she was certainly making the gossips' headlines once again.

 

[angelique127]

Jessica

Lucas Lacombe arrived about one o'clock in the afternoon. He was dressed in a pair of jeans, and a plain white tee-shirt, which was stretched tight across the muscles of his chest, and showed off the bulging muscles in his arms. Hardly GQ, but still I was impressed...

I gave him a quick tour of our home, before inviting him out upon the screened in patio, where I would serve lunch. I had gone all out, preparing shrimp scampi, as the main course, with a salad, containing cheese, mushrooms, egg, onions and the like, and some homemade bread and butter. A hot apple pie was cooling on the windowsill for dessert.

" Lucas, would you like an ice cold glass of lemonade ? "

He nodded, accepting. I poured a refreshing glass for him.

" My husband, the preacher of our fine town, should be joining us shortly. He so is wanting to meet you, and has agreed to offer you a job, around our home. As you can see, we need alot of work done. Our yard is in shambles...and their is plenty of repairs that need to be done. "

Luke sipped his lemonade, seeming to weigh his options, impressing me as being the strong, silent type.

" I am looking forward to the county fair next weekend, do you know my jelly won first place last year ? " I said, making conversation, growing slightly uneasy at the way Luke was staring at my ample breasts poking out of my simple cotten sundress that I was wearing. Duke had warned me to be careful, this man hadn't been around a female in some time, being locked up as he was ! But in a strange way, I was flattered, if not alarmed...
" I do declare, I had better go check on lunch, I don't want it to overcook ! " I smiled, excusing myself.

Once inside the kitchen, I realized what an effect this man was having on me...to be honest, I couldn't stop thinking about him, how attractive he was, how completely forbidden...and dangerous....

 

[Blue Dolphin]

We sat on the patio, after my tour of the place, me drinking, of all things lemonade. I would have much preferred a bear, but they were church folks, and maybe beer wasnt allowed here.

I could not help looking at her, it was hard to tear my eyes away from her breasts, and the thin dress that she wore. Mrs Jessica Ryan was beautiful, and here was I, Luke the murderer, after having been without female company for so many years. Man it was hard, as was my dick. I shifted uncomfortably, afraid to move too much, in case she noticed. I tried to concentrate on what she was saying, and the work that needed doing here. The yard was a mess, and the cottage badly needed attention, but there was nothing that I would not be able to handle.

The thought of working here, in the Carolina sunshine, with this beautiful lady around, was now very appealing. I knew that I had to be very careful though , and not do anything to spoil my chances of coming here.

She said something about wining a prize at the county fair, and then checking on the food. I watched as she stood, and left me alone. The sunlight almost kmaking her skirt transparent, giving me a wonderful view of her legs, all the way up to the top. It was all that I could do not to moan out loud. But I knew, this lady was off limits, for now I would have to make do with the five fingered widow. At least until I could earn some money, and find out who the local whore was, every town had one, and I was sure that Luxury was no different.

I sipped my lemonade, feeling better than I had expected, my only problem now might be the Preacher man, because I had no intentions of going to church, not yet, it was too soon after what I had seen and heard in prison.

 

[makofin]

Duke Allen[ the preacher]

When Duke came downstairs, dressed in a white shirt and slacks, Jessica and the convict were sitting on the porch, at the table, discussing God knew what. Three ceiling fans whirled overhead, not doing much but moving hot air around the room. As Duke approahed the convict stood, extending his hand to shake. The stranger's grip was firm, as he appeared to be well built, probably from hours of working out in prison.

The salad was already on the table, and Duke blessed the food, and they started eatting. Duke and the convict didn't speak because Jessica was doing all the talking. The preacher was surprised, she rarely got this excited, going on about the work that needed to be done, and the upcoming church sponsered fair next Sunday. Duke, on the other hand, while being preoccupied with another matter, was alittle wary of this man, who was going to be working around the estate, after everything was said and done, Luke had been locked up for eight years without being with a woman.
Duke dismissed this, he did trust his beautiful wife, who was content doing God's work !

Jessica served the main couse, delicous gulf shrimp, saulteed in a garlic sauce. It was simply mouth watering. Luke remained queit throughout lunch, most likely waiting for Duke to spread the gospel, sort of speak, but the Preacher had no such intentions, leaving that to his wife. Luke Lacombe was her 'pet' project, it seemed, and she was capable enough.
Duke finished his lunch quickly, having another important matter to attend to. He excused himself, and left the house, heading for his car. He decided to drive by the place were Savannah was staying, maybe he could catch a glimpse of her, wondering if she was still as pretty as he remembered. While driving towards her new home, he called the sheriff to see if he had found anything useful about her past.

" I'm sorry Preacher, nothing, not even a speeding ticket. "

" Damn. Thank you anyway, sheriff, you are a good man. "

Duke thought about calling Liam, to see if their was any way the will could be contested, forcing Savannah to vacate the house, but he was passing by the house now. He couldn't believe his eyes, there she was, sitting on the porch swing, reading a paper, looking like she BELONGED here in Luxury, as if she didn't have a care in the world ! He slowed down, not wanting to be seen.

Savannah Grayson was as beautiful as ever, he noticed, with a pang of regret.

 

[Blue Dolphin]

The preacher ate his lunch with us, but said very little. I did notice though, that he kept looking at me, as if he was unsure about me. It struck me that he was a man with a lot on his mind, his brow often furrowing as he looked to be deep in thought. He left as soon as the meal was over, and there was silence for a while. It was almost embarassing, so I decided to speak.

"I think that maybe your husband is not too happy about having a ex-convict around here Mrs Ryan, but I assure you, ex is the word. There is no way on this earth that I want to go back to the pen, ever. I know that I did wrong, avenging my mother`s death, murder as I called it, like that. But, I have paid my debt , and now I want to start again. become a useful member of society."

She smiled at me, her beautiful eyes almost twinkling, as I dragged my gaze away from them.

"I want to thank you for the food Mrs Ryan, and for the offer to work and help jhere. If it is OK with Mr McGee, I would really like to do this. I can live in the cottage as I I fix it up I hope, and do all the other things. Maybe I can even help you with the fair next Sunday, if your husband does not mind that is."

The fair would be good I thought, lots more people, women even, to be around. Something to think about at night, when the need came clawing at me, as it did every night now.

 

[sharingfantasies]

Savannah

Savannah finished reading the paper and figuring the gossips had plenty of fodder, stood up and stretched. Heading back inside, she looked around, pleased with the progress she was making. Glancing at her watch, she realized she had an hour or so before the mattress was delivered. Gathering up plenty of bags, she headed for Sylvie's library office. From the looks of the filing cabinets there, Syvie never threw anything away.

After looking through the first files, Savannah stopped. Picking up her bag, she got into the hot car carefully. Aiming the vents of the a/c so that the steering wheel cooled off, Savannah added a couple of more ideas to her list.

Then backing out of the driveway, she headed for the downtown area. The shops closed early on Sundays but she had time. She stopped in at the bookstore and made arrangements to have someone pick up some books on Tuesday, then popped into the office supply store and bought a large electric shredder. At the office supply store, she ran into Hilda Mayers, a girl she had known in high school. They talked briefly, and promised to talk more another time. The meeting had made Savannah feel good, apparently not everyone considered her the devil incarnate.

Heading home, she listened to the radio, singing along with the southern rock song. Surprisingly, it felt good to be here, almost like she belonged, almost like home. She supposed she should make a duty call to her parents but decided it could wait. The wounds there were still deep and raw even after all this time.

Carrying the shredder into the house, Savannah went back to work on the files.

 

[angelique127]

Jessica

...maybe I can even help you with the fair next weekend, if your husband does not mind that is. "

" Oh the Preacher wouldn't mind at all. He will be busy with the church services anyway. " I smiled, touched by his earlier remarks about how sorry he was, and how he wanted to become a member of society again. He sounded so very sincere, and I did not doubt him. I found this man very interesting...although I couldn't really explain it, I liked his calm, easy going manner, but I sensed a deep intensity under the surface...something hidden, maybe even dangerous, if exposed.

The way he was staring at me, I blushed...

" Speaking of the fair, there are sure to be plenty of single, pretty, young ladies attending, perhaps you will meet one. " I said, noting again just how attractive he was, he shouldn't have any problems in that area.

Luke looked away, smiling...

" Well, I better get busy and clear the table. " I said, standing up. " If am lucky, I may get to spend an hour beside the pool. This heat is ovahwhelming. "

Luke offered to help, and began gathering dishes from the table. I told him to go on, I was used to doing it, and suggested that he make the cottage presentable, if he wanted to move in this evening. He agreed that their was alot that needed to be done. I also told him I would bring down fresh, clean sheets and anything else he needed later.


After placing the dishes in the dishwasher, I went upstairs to change into my bikini. I happened to look out the window, and saw Luke cleaning the filter system, next to the poolhouse. He wasn't wearing a shirt...and I couldn't help but notice his lean, but powerful, muscled arms and chest. It was most breathtaking...but I quickly looked away, as if embarrassed and feeling shameful. What am I thinking ? Was I LUSTING after this man. I best stop thinking these thoughts...I am a married woman.. I scolded myself, feeling guilty, and quite confused !

Mmmmm...maybe I shouldn't wear this bikini in front of him. Oh, don't be silly, it's not as if I am completely naked... I stepped into a pair of silk slippers, grabbed a towel and my sunglasses and went out to the pool....

 

[makofin]

Duke Allen

Duke had driven by and saw Savannah sitting on the porch. Gripping the steering wheel, he turned the corner and pulled into the drugstore parking lot, and sat there, letting the cadillac idle. He wanted to go confront her, demand that she leave down, but he knew Savannah would refuse. Duke knew she was stubborn and most likely hated him for what happened so many years ago.

Duke had been in college, about to begin his ministry, filled with grand expectations of serving God, looking forward to the missionary trip to South America. Savannah was young, beautiful, spirited, and independant, they soon started dating, she was attending college also, and upon graduation they had planned to be married.

Savannah had gotten pregnant, and all at once their perfect little world had fallen apart. Actually, at first, it didn't phase Duke, but not so his father, Gregg Allen Ryan. The high and mighty minister flew into an outrage, insisting and convincing his son that the child wasn't his. Who knew what Savannah was doing while away at school, Gregg ranted, and besides why should Duke be burdened with a child and wife at such a young age, when he had the work of the church before him. Gregg had been pushing his son towards bigger and better things, like a cable TV contract, which could expand his audience threefold !

In the end, Duke was forbidden to see Savannah, not so much as to speak to her. He did not dare go againest his father's wishes. In disgrace, it had been arranged that she leave town. She had been labeled a whore, a sinner, carrying a bastards child. Almost a year later, Duke had found out Savannah had miscarried.

Duke did his best to forget her, and eventually met Jessica, who was the perfect wife. She was faithful, deeply religious, dutiful, know her place, standing behind her husband, supporting him without question. Duke thrived with her by his side. They were, as a couple, admired and respected by the people of Luxury, considered wealthy and upstanding.
Not to mention, Duke took very good care of half of the female members of his flock, as he so fondly liked to call them.

Duke put the caddy in gear, deciding to pay Liam Taylor a visit.