Lost In Paradise

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine nods softly, but her eyes are worried.

"Darwin.. I.. do not wish to spoil the festivities.. please, don't let me stop you doing what you usually do. I can watch... but.. don't change your plans because of me.. it... wouldn't be fair..."

She looks at him shyly. Not wanting to cause a fuss and willing to melt into the background.. view from the sideline..

"i'll be fine .. really..."

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Walking hand in hand like two carefree children Darwin and Catherine entered the house. Inside they saw Mam in her native costume, her face beaming with excitement. Darwin marveled at how beautifull she looked. Her hair dark and shinny, fell around her brown shoulders mingling with the bright colored lei she is wearing around her neck. Her leaf skirt fastened low on her hips caught the light as she was already swaying to the music of the drums from the plaza.

"What do you think? she asked the two as they came through the door. Your mam still has it doesn't she? She grins. "Well what are you kids waiting for ? Get dressed."

Darwin explained to his mother that Catherine will be a guest tonite and just watch, maybe he would do that too.He looked at Catherine and then his mother.

His mother gave him an impish grin and replied

'I wated to dance with you my son, at least once." she pretended to pout I guess I'll have to choose one of your handsome friends then."

She turned to Catherine reaching toward her to push back a strand of wet hair from her forehead.

"I understand all of this is strange for you but we have been doing it for years, no matter if the missionaries have told us it was improper it's so natural for us and we enjoy it so"... her eyes twinkle


"At least wear a flower in your hair, our people would like to share this occasion with you in what ever way you feel comfortable." she said softly.

In a different voice she commanded

"Darwin take care of this precious girl tonite. I'm going to dance!" she began giggling like a school girl.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Ignoring her comment, Darwin took her hand and led her back to the house. Catherine felt strangely carefree. The dip in the pool had helped her to understand a bit about their customs.

As they passed through the doorway she gasped as she caught sight of Darwin's mother!

"What do you think? Your mam still has it doesn't she?
Catheirine laughed and saw Darwin's admiring glance.

"Well what are you kids waiting for ? Get dressed."

Catherine let her eyes roam the native costume as Darwin explained that he would watch with her that evening and again felt guilty and, although she would not acknowledge it, a twinge of regret that she would not see Darwin in his native finery.


'I wated to dance with you my son, at least once." she pretended to pout I guess I'll have to choose one of your handsome friends then."
She bantered in response.

Catherine smiled as the woman pushed back her her hair tucking it behind her ear.
"I understand all of this is strange for you but we have been doing it for years, no matter if the missionaries have told us it was improper it's so natural for us and we enjoy it so"

Catherine returned the woman's kind smile. Part of her longed to be part of it all.

"At least wear a flower in your hair, our people would like to share this occasion with you in what ever way you feel comfortable." she said softly.

She nodded as the woman turned to her soon and said almost scoldingly;
"Darwin take care of this precious girl tonite. I'm going to dance!"
Catherine could not resist joining her jolity and giggled along with her.

Once again Darwin was ushered out of the hut and told to go outside and wait whilst his mother fixed her hair. He grinned and left with throwing a warning to them both not to keep him waiting too long or the celebrations would be over.

Catherine watched Darwin's sillhouette disappear beyond the door frame.

She looked at the woman in front of her, and spoke shyly to her.

"Maman, I don't want to spoil Darwin's fun, but he will not take part if he feels he has to escort me all evening... could.... "
She paused and blushed,
".. could you help dress me... more like your native girls so he can join in the celebrations.. I.. I'd like to join in too.... "

She raised trusting eyes to his mother, knowing she would be guided on how to dress traditionally, but with a bit of modesty...

She returned the woman's smile as she thought of the suprise Darwin would get when they came out of the hut....

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Darwin shook his head as Mam usheredd him outside
"Shakespere",

he called. His dog came and sat down at his feet he reached down and scratched his ears.

"At least I can understand you he said, your always there when I need you.... well almost always", remembering Shakesperes habit of staying out all night sometimes. Dawwin was feeling a little down, part of him wanted to take part in the dance and part of him wanted to be by Catherines side explaining the ritual as it progressed.
He knew he couldn't have it both ways but it was hard to resign himself to the later......if only..... His mind waundered wondering how Catherine would look dressed in their costume. He had a soft smile on his face that soon turned to
astonishment when Catherine and mam walked out of the door.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine blushed crimson as Darwin's eyes lit in pleasure and admiration. She cast her eyes shyly to the floor.

She looked over at his mam for encouragement and approval. She was beaming looking from one to the other.

Slowly she raised her eyes to Darwin and smiled.

"Do..do you like it..?"
She asked hesitantly. She knew he did, but needed reassurance, rather than fishing for compliments...

"Will I fit in..?"

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

"Do..do you like it"

Darwin was speechless for a minute. She was beautifull! Mam had found a fleshcolored camisole that hugged her body like a glove. her bright colored lei covered just enough of her bodice to disguse the fact that she was not topless like the rest of the dancers would be.

Her shy downward look gave her the appearance of innocence that the dancers would be portraying as they began the dance

"You will be perfect', he said,

Her skirt hung on her hips so naturally Darwin would have guessed that she was one of the islanders her dark long hair , her long slender legs amidst the leaves would be admired by all. He gave her a quick kiss and said,

"I'll be right back"

He was soon back, dressed in his loincloth, his bronze body tense with excitement. He took her arm and mams on the other side and off they went to the plaza he felt proud to have these two beauties accompanying him.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine ooked up as Darwin spoke.
"You will be perfect', he said.
She returned his smile, their eyes locking momentarily as she caught her breath.

The cami felt like a second skin. Catherine felt liberated and sexy, yet comfortable. The lei and the leafy skirt stroked her skin. Her hair was now loose about her shoulders and Darwin's mother had fixed an exotic flower that contrasted as a flag of colour against her dark, shiny curtain of hair.

She giggled as Darren kissed her quickly then left with a promise that he would soon return.

Catherine exchanged a look with Darwin's mother. The woman was chuckling and smiling indulgently.
"You will turn heads. You could be one of our own kind dressed so.." She praised.

If Catherine's father could see her dressed so or hear the comment he would be disgusted, disgraced, but somehow thoughts of her social-climbing family had left Catherine's mind and she flushed, this time with pleasure at the approval and feeling of belonging those words awoke in her.

As she met those warm eyes once more, she noticed the gaze move away from her and followed the direction of those eyes, now widened with motherly pride. Catherine all but gasped as she saw Darwin traditionallly dressed. He looked magnificent. Every bit the native. Strong, tanned and somewhat intimidating in his traditional costume.... intimidating until he grinned boyishly at her, causing her to giggle in response.

As he drew closer, her eyes fell inevitably to his loincloth. She moved her eyes determinedly away, hoping that she had not caught staring. He looked so ... virile... soo... her body seemed to flush and she had to stop herself from shivering as he took her arm and guided his mam to his other side.

Both son and mother beamed with pride, both approving of the other and somehow they had drawn Catherine into the warmth of their circle. Her eyes sparkled with excitement and anticipation as she were led towards the celebrations.

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Holding his head high Darwin led Catherine and his mother toward the plaza. He looked at his mother. She had not looked this radiant since his father had died. He knew the reason, because he had watched her look at Catherine in a very special way. He knew that she had always wanted a daughter and that Catherine had filled a void that his father had left, someone else to love. He felt good sharing his mothers love with Catherine and now they were together to share the age old celebration of fertility with each other.

The sun was just setting as they entered the dance arena. The drummers at one end with slow low beats of their drums were welcoming the dancers as they arrived. Coconut oil lamps formed a circle of light around them. Tables piled high with fruits of many flavors and colors, roasted meats, Chicken pork and fish, and breads of all shapes and sizes, stood at the other In the midddle of one large table was a huge bowl of Tahari mix. It was called that because it was a secret recipe that only the elders of the tribe knew. It was the fermented juices from many of the fruits and herbs that grew on Tahari and was exquisitly delicious to drink. It was served only at celebrations because many thought it was a gift from the gods.

An elder was in charge of serving this drink making sure everyone got a chance to partake of this gift and that no one took more than his share.

Darwin approached the Elder bowing low.

"With your permission we wish to partake of the nectar of the gods.

The elder answered "And who is it that you ask for"

Darwin answered

"Darwn, His mother Anne and Their friend Catherine."

The elder looked from one to the other and back again to Darwin

"Darwin after the famous Charles Darwin I presume and of course Anne after Anne Queen of scots, queen of grat Briitan,1702 and...he looked at Catherine and smilling he said"

"Of course I should have know, Catherine de Me'di cis queen of France,1547. No doubt about it you have her independant nature my dear. He kissed both their hands, bowing low himself.

Welcome to our celebration

Tonite we are fortunate to have a young couple commiting their lives to each other along with the usual festivitlies.

He handed them their drinks in three half coconut shells and bid them to please be seated while the young couple begin their dance of coming together and their acceptance of each other.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine looked round. Her eyes taking in every sight and sound. She were as excited as a child at a carnival, but this was so much more amazing. The drummers seemed to make her very soul pulsate, their throbbing slow as a heart beat. The lamps smelt of coconut, exotic flames dancing in the darkness, the lighting subtle and warm.

She looked at the tables and their mouth-watering array of food. Delicious, Catherine thought, but would she be able to eat? She was so overawed by the whole spectacle. Her eyes met Darwin's mother and her smile broadened, exchanging a look with Darwin's mother who was watching her and enjoying the girl's response.

Catherine stood close to his mother as Darwin bowed low to the majestic looking man who approached. His dress was still grander than Darwin's and his eyes penetrating as they travelled over the three of them.

"With your permission we wish to partake of the nectar of the gods.
Darwin's voice was strong, but respectful.

"And who is it that you ask for"
The elder matched his tone for strength and with the addition of authority.

"Darwn, His mother Anne and Their friend Catherine."

Catherine smiled nervously, feeling self-conscious under the great man's gaze. What if he saw her as an outsider?
The elder looked from one to the other and back again to Darwin

"Darwin after the famous Charles Darwin I presume and of course Anne after Anne Queen of scots, queen of great Briitan,1702 and...

Catherine returned his gaze as it rested on her. She mirrored his smile as she spoke;
"Of course I should have know, Catherine de Me'di cis queen of France,1547. No doubt about it you have her independant nature my dear. "
She flushed with pleasure as he accompanied his words with a light kiss on her hand and bowed.

"Welcome to our celebration"

"Thank you,"
Catherine mumured breathlessly.

"Tonite we are fortunate to have a young couple commiting their lives to each other along with the usual festivitlies. "

Catherine nodded, but did not understand the intricacies of the ceremony, but could see the excitement growing in Darwin and his mam's eyes. It would be quite an evening she gathered.

Catherine accepted the coconut shell in her hand and followed both her escorts to their seats to watch the start of the festivities. She sipped the drink curiously...

 

[afternooner]

"When the rolling surf
and the rising moon
and the swaying palm
and the high white bird
and the lazy fish
all speak of love
I cry in the night:
where are you, love?

Everyones eyes are turned toward the direction of the singing voice coming from a darkened corner of the arena. Suddenly appearing as if from out of nowhere the dancer appears. Her hands raised to her eyes as if peering off into the distance she moves gently swaying to the drums as they now have increased their tempo. Her dark hair falls around her brown tawny shoulders her lei more colorfull than all the rest, lays against her rounded breasts. her smooth firm stomach above her skirt shines in the firelight. Her skirt moves with the rythmn of the music and her feet prance, her knees rise and fall as she circles the crowd. The drums stop and so does she, as into the arena the object of her search appears

He is handsome his brown body glowing in the light his head held high and his legs began to move as once again the drums beat. he prances his knees going high his legs and feet beating out the rythmn on the ground below him.

They approach each other coming within inches of each others bodies and then stopping abruptly with the music. For a long minute they just stand there looking deep into each others eyes searching each others souls.

The drums begin again slow methodical beats. The woman her hands at her hips begins to move backwards a bit untill she is a meter or so away then she begins her dance while the man standing poised watches.

Her hips begin weaving in a circluar movement slowly and seductively, her eyes watch the man looking for his reaction. He tries not to be impressed his gaze impassive the curcular motion of her hips seems to go to her kness and down her long legs to her feet.Her hands follow as she bends. Then back up again as she straightens, the movement back to her hips to her waist and then to her upper torso her rounded breasts peek out as her lei moving with her body uncovers them. Her hands now at her breasts circle them, not touching but so close that the motion of both blur in the shadows. Her hands continue their upward journey framing in her shapely face and finally raising high above her head as her body sways.

The man watches his eyes betraying his impassive stance. obviously he too is in awe of her beauty as is the audience. Her hands repeat their path down again, along her breasts, her waist, her hips and then her legs. this time she makes a cutsying movement and stops in the middle of it as the drums stop also.

Darwins hand finds Catherines and he turns to her smiling sharing this moment of natural beauty with her.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

When the rolling surf
and the rising moon
and the swaying palm
and the high white bird
and the lazy fish
all speak of love
I cry in the night:
where are you, love?

Catherine watched dreamily as she let the words of the song wash over her. The instruments and the background accompaniment of the ocean stimulating her senses.

The beauty of the solitary dancer startles Catherine, her eyes follow the sensuous innocence of the movements.

The silencing of the drums herald the arrival of her partner. The face and body handsome and glowing from the firelight, but equally illuminated by his pleasure and anticicpation.

Again the drums throb as he starts to move. His dance athletic and energetic. As magnets they are drawn to each other to meet in the middle of the arena.

The halt is sudden, of music and movement. The onlookers hold their breath as their eyes lock and each seems to drown in the eyes of the other.

The woman performs her dance. Her moving sensuously accompanied by the slow drum beats. He watches.. with growing fascination and arousal.

Catherine catches her breath. She is amazed that something so intimate has been made so public. She feels like an eavesdropper as if she should not be watching such a sexual display.. and yet.. it is beautiful... their open attraction shared with well-wishers.

Catherine watches astonished, yet moved by this public courtship .... the drums stop once more. The woman is courtseyed at her partners feet. His adoration is evident for all to see... they seem unaware of the approving faces of the well-wishes who surround them.

She feels Darwin's hand move to take hers. His grip is firm as she squeezes her petite hand. She turns and mirrors his smile. She has never seen anything like this.. and feels priviledged to be able to share such a moment..

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

The music has stopped and the audience is quiet sharing this momentous occasion even the ocean seems to have ceased its motion quiet and still as the two lovers pause reflecting their commitment about to be made. Then as the drums begin again their hands reach around their own shoulders and remove the Tahari shells they wear. Smiling they raise them off their bodies and without touching trade their shells each one giving something of themselves to each other. They turn and slowly walk towards the darkness just as they leave the areana their hands join. and the drum sound fades into the distance with them. Everyones eyes follow them knowing they are heading for a place prepared for them A quiet hut tucked in the forest with food and water enough for at least a week.

Darwin holds Catherines hand and looks at her. The fire light makes her hair shine Her eyes are misty with the excitement of the dance. Entranced he reaches up with his free hand and cupping her chin kisses her softly yet firmly as if to seal a special connection that they have made tonite.

Mam gets up as most of the other people have and heads for the dance areana. Their happy faces showing the joy and excitement of the first dancers, they either dance or go to eat and drink and talk.

Darwin looks at Catherine her face is flushed though he's not sure if its from his kiss or all the excitement. Do you.. want.. he doesn't even get to finish before she up and by his side, her hand in his and smiling like everyone else.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

The exchange of shells. She remembers her own and touches it lightly... she watches as the couple walk off together.. so romantic and sensuous.. and... beautiful... she thinks again... so wonderous.... such a spectacle....

Her hand is in Darwin's. She turns to him once more. His hand draws her face to his and he kisses her. The warmth and sweetness of the kiss take her breath away. The feeling is right... there is such a "rightness" about everything this evening...

Catherine glances across at Darwin's mam as she gets up and heads for the dancing... faces dance with happiness and excitement... food is served and passed around. Again Darwin and Catherine exchange looks.

"Do you.. want.. "
Yes she wants to.. so much... she wants to be part of this.. forever...

She stands by his side an hand in hand they move with the others... her body already swaying softly to the beat as they stand and spot Darwin's mom. Catherine giggles.. the woman is graceful and shows such joyous abandon Catherine can not help but admire her...

Darwin draws her to him... and she moves, tentatively at first, her movements more confident as she feels the beat and sways in time. Darwin opposite her mimics the athleticism of the natives around him.... although it he does not mimic. This is what Darwin is.. wild and sensual... She eyes him overawed by his raw masulinity. The music and the costume making her feel like one of the natives, liberated and able to enjoy the sensuousness of the occasion, all self-consciousness gone as Darwin draws her swaying body closer...

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Watchin Catherine, her body swaying her dark hair catching the light from the fire as it flows sensously around her shoulders, Darwin begins his dance. For him it is a dance of joy. Joy in knowing that this beautifull creature in front of him has chosen him to dance with, to be with. He vows to dance his best for her to show how proud and honored he is. To show his joy and passion. He watches her eyes sparkle with joy too caught up in a rythmn of her own yet so like all the others. He wants to hug her not just in greeting but because she has made him so happy and so proud and also because he wants to be close to her to share his feelings with her, by holding her, by touching, her by kissing her.

But that will come later he tells himself. There is much more for them to share before they do any sampling, he wants to court her in the way his ancestors would with patience and respect. For now he just wants to dance and watch her dance and enjoy the feelings that swarm like butterflies in the middle of his body.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine sways... the music beats slowly then picks up pace - echoing the increase of her own heart pounding within.

Her face shines with pleasure. She let's go and sways in time with the quickening beat.

She is barely aware of the others around them. She has even lost track of Darwin's mother. Her attention is all on Darwin as they dance together, so abandoned, so free. She is aware of the nakedness around them. All the other girls are topless, but she now understands the freedom and naturalness of it. Despite her strangeness, she feels as one with these natives honouring their age old traditions.

The beat slows again, the music becoming sensuous after the wild crescendo of activity... she sways... her hands lifting experimentally and passing lightly over her body, as she saw the female dancer do, as other women we doing around her. Her movements, but grazing her body, outlining her silhouette, are less overt than the young woman who was the focal point of the ceremony, yet no less sensual for their comparative innocence.

Such sexuality was new to Catherine. Her first experiment in sensuality. She grins at Darwin as she sees his eyes widen. Shock? Appreciation? He returns her grin, so she does not mind what his reaction is.. the drums continue to beat and they are still moving as one.

Never has Catherine been happier...

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Watching Catherine dance brings joy to his heart and a tear to his cheek, a tear of happiness for her as he somehow knows that she is allowing herself to do what pleases her. He looks wide eyed as her hands begin to follow the outline of her curacious body her lei swings back and forth. In the light of the fire he sees the ouline of her full breasts, the tips outlined in the thin fabric. He wonders why he is so awestruck by this view, the other girls are topless yet they do not affect him this way perhaps it is because her breasts are somewhat hidden from his wiew tesin his senses, that he is feeling this way or maybe he has feelings for Catherine that he didn't before realize. He brushes the thought from his mind and concentrates on his dance using his hands to outline his face, his muscular arms, his chest, his slim wait and his gyrating hips. the flaps of his leather loin cloth rise and fall revealing his muscular butt and the tight cup of material that holds his sex. The meaning of his movement is obvious,it is meant to be arousing but the purpose is to portray it's naturalness
and beauty.

As Catherine grins at him he returns it a childlike glow coming over his face as he even though the sight of her body excites him, he is sharing, in innocence and joy, the time honored tradition of his ancestors celebration of their sexuality and their fertility.

The music slows and Darwin takes Catherines hand leading her to the table where his mother, wiping her perspiring brow greets them. Darwin looks at her partner and says.

"I get the next dance with my mother".

He feels protective of her but knows that she needs to have a good time too and the hansome man she is with is certainly quite a prize.

He winks at her and glances at her partner as if
to say, good going Mam, you've still got what it takes.

She pulls him to the side and whispers, trying to sound authoratative."

You watch out for our girl Catherine tonite. I'm counting on you". Then she starts to giggle glancing amorously toward her friend, It looks like I'm going to be buys tonite."

Darwin shrugs his shoulders "Ok mam".He tries to be nanchalant.

"Dont forget though, before you go sneaking off. We have to have one dance. he grazes her cheek with a tender kiss and as the music begins again, they bound into the arena and as they have been doing for most of Darwins 24 years dance, swept up in each others excitement, so in tune with each others movements that they never miss a step, their movements separate yet so syncronously combined.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

The music slows, but Catherine still glows, wrapped in its magic. Darwin takes her hand and leads her back to the table. The atmosphere is humid and sweet with the heady scent of flowers.

Her face quirks in amusement as she realises that Darwin's mother has claimed her own partner.

"I get the next dance with my mother".

Darwin seems to eye the man carefully. Catherine stifles a giggle and catches his mama's eye mischievously. Turning away to hide her mirth, she does not see the wink that passes between mother and son. Nor does she see His mother pull him aside and warn him to look out for Catherine.

She turns once more, seeing mam giggle and sees the affectionate kiss given by Darwin.

"Dont forget though, before you go sneaking off. We have to have one dance."

Catherine stands with Mam's partner and watch as they thow a smile at her then dash to join the dances. She stands admiring their perfect harmony as they dance with perfectly co-ordinated movements.

Beside her, Catherine feels touch on her arm.

"As we've lost our partners... shall we...?"

His eyes twinkle as mam's partner invites her to dance.

Catherine glances worriedly at Mam, more concerned about her feelings than Darwin's.

"Just one dance..." He coaxes, "..until they reclaim us once more.."

She smiles at him shyly. She cannot guess his age, but he is handsome and virile.

She nods acceptance and he takes her hand in easy familiarity to lead her to the dances.

At first self conscious with this stranger, Catherine dances shyly, but the music is hypnotic. The man opposite her moves athletically as the music pulsates sensuously, catching Catherine up once again in its rhythm.

She laughs outloud. Happy and at ease with her new partner, feeling accepted in her almost authentic native costume...

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Darwin dancing with his mother looked around to see who else was dancing and spotted Catherine dancing with mams partner his face fell and then he felt an angry feeling coming on. It passed too and then he wondered why he had felt like that. First sad because Catherine was with someone else then angry because she chose to be.

Darwin smiled realizing he was being childish, behaving like a jealous youth. He had no right first off, she wasn't obligated to him. A he watched Catherine his heart was lightend once again as he knew she had not only accepted him and mam but also his frineds and neighbors as well.

He finished his dance and then returned to the table where the others had finished also.

He looked at Catherine and smiled

"Are you enjoying our celebration he asked she nodded and then as mam engaged in amicable
conversaton with her partner walked away from them, he added.

"would you like to go for a walk."

Many couples were leaving the light of the fire
and disappearing into the trees.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Finishing the dance, Mam's freind took Catherine's hand and led her back to the table. They were laughing as Darwin and his mam came over to join them. Mam smiled at them. Catherine was relieved that she was not angered by the dance she had shared.

Dropping a light paternal kiss on her cheek, Mam's partner thanked her for the dance and moved away with Darwin's mother grinning wickedly at them.

"Are you enjoying our celebration?"
Darwin's voice was soft and deep.
She nodded happily unable to put into words how suprisingly relaxed she felt.

"would you like to go for a walk."

Catherine looked round. The dancing continued, but she was warm and welcomed the idea of a cool walk.

"I'd like that."
She smiled her response.

Again Darwin took her hand and they strolled away from the fire, into the cooler shadows.

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Darwin was surprised when Catherine accepted his invitation to walk. He watched the other couples hoding hands and disappearing into the dark, aroused by the knowledge of where they were going and what they would be doing.

Lookeing at her and seeing only innocence in her dark eyes even though her face was flush with excitement made him realize that she trusted him. he felt proud of this, her trust, her willingness to be with him and so he knew, as his heart went out to her, that he could not betray this trust by giving in to his arousal.

For him it felt so natural yet he knew for her it might mean something else. He smiled and took her hand, together they moved easily into the shadows.

Shakespere met them at the edge and whined as he raised his muzzel up, first to first Darwin and then Catherine.

"What is it pal"

Darwin patted his head but Shakespere pulled away and stepped a couple of meters back. Dariwn followed him only to have the dog move farther away again.

"I think he wants us to follow him"

Catherine said, and Darwin agreed.

Soon they were carefully following Shakespere around behind the village. Aided by the bright moon light and about a million stars they continued on into the rain forest along a well worn path back into a little cove.

There in a nest of sorts was the object of their quest. Seven puppies nursing at their mothers teats, just born, their eyes still closed
their little tails wagging in pleasure.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine walked hand in hand with Darwin. She glanced at other couples holding hands and moving out into the darkness. She smiled, guessing that they were off to find a quiet romantic spot where they could talk and kiss beyond adult and prying eyes.

She grinned over at Darwin. He treated her like a sister and shared his mam with her. She was comfortable with the easy intimacy between them. She found him fascinating and enjoyed his company. She was grateful to him and his mother for their hospitality and taking her into the family. She smiled fondly remembering that his mother had treated her as the daughter she had never had. She was touched by her comments.

Catherine looked around curiously as Darwin drew her into the shadows. Darwin could see that she accepted his lead without questioning where he was taking her. Her trust in him was total.

She looked down at the whine, which came from the undergrowth at her feet. She laughed as she recognised Shakespeare. He greeted them with a whine, so unlike his usual bark that she looked at Darwin with sudden concern. In answer to her questioning look, Darwin knelt to stroke the hound.

"What is it pal"

Shakespeare pulled away from the touch,, moving away and looking back at both Darwin and Catherine. Catherine was reminded of the Lassie films she had seen as a youngster.

"I think he wants us to follow him" she suggested, hoping Darwin would not think her crazy.
He smiled in agreement and took her hand as they followed Shakespeare deeper and deeper into the forest.

The voices of the village melted into the distance as Shakespeare led them onwards, renewing his whine if they paused, even for breath.

Catherine said, and Darwin agreed.

Eventually the rainforest thinned and they broke into a clearing which led to a little cove. Catherine had little time to exclaim at the beauty of the setting, before she saw the nest

She gasped as she saw Shakespeare sat near the tumble of seven pups suckling at their mother’s teats. They were newborn, with closed eyes and wagging tails.
She giggled then.
“Shakespeare sure has been busy.”

She ached to touch the tiny creatures, but knew that there mother would reject them is she did so.

“They are sooo sweet…”
She murmured, kneeling down, her face tender as she watched the babies wriggling and completing for food.

Suddenly aware of the silence around them she glanced round.

“It’s beautiful here, but we must have covered some ground. Its so silent.”

Concerned by the isolation she stood and looked out at the cove.

“Do you know this cove, Darwin. It’s magical,”
She breathed caught up with the unreal feeling of the night she had spent with him.

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Noticing Catherines concern, Darwin smilled and put his arm around her to reasure her.

"There is no danger here Catherine, he said softly. There are only a few silly monkeys and they are fast asleep and the birds you should see them,.... all the colors of the rainbow You can't see them now it's too dark,.... but the flowers and plants..... Oh Catherine, they will amaze you."

"You're right, it is a magic place We can come back tomorrow if you'ld like though night is a magic time too. Look how the moonlight streams down around us though the opening in the trees. See the stars, theres the north star that is the star that will guide us back to the village we have come from the east so now if we keep it on our left shoulder. we can go straigth home. Shakespere knows the way too, he has been here many times I'm sure"

He winked at Catherine and seeing the moonlight stream around her figure her hair seeming to glow her face innocent and trusting looking up at him, he felt a warmth come over his body a feeling that he just needed to hold her close right this minute.

He tipped her face to his and gently kissed her before pulling her into his arms. It felt so wonderful in this magic place to share more than a greeting or goodby hug but a hug that meant, I want to share more of my life with you. A hug that held a promise for her and for him. He kissed her again wanting to confirm this feeling.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Noticing Catherines concern, Darwin smilled and put his arm around her to reasure her.

His arm as it wound around her was reassuring. She felt herself drawn towards Darwin’s warmth.

"There is no danger here Catherine, there are only a few silly monkeys and they are fast asleep and the birds you should see them,.... all the colors of the rainbow You can't see them now it's too dark,.... but the flowers and plants..... Oh Catherine, they will amaze you."

She smiled, his voice soft and gentle at first, had risen and quickened as he painted a picture of the colour and the wild life, which could not be seen in the blackness of the night. She felt enraptured by his words. Her eyes on his as he shared his love of the secluded cove.

"You're right, it is a magic place, we can come back tomorrow if you'd like though night is a magic time too.”
Catherine nodded, thinking how wonderful it would be to see such beauty in the light.

“Look how the moonlight streams down around us though the opening in the trees.”
Darwin’s voice was soft as she followed his gesture, her eyes taking in all he showed her.

”See the stars, theres the north star that is the star that will guide us back to the village we have come from the east so now if we keep it on our left shoulder.”

She watched in fascination as he talked of navigation, but could only think of how dark the heavens were and how beautiful. It was as if she had never really noticed before.

“We can go straight home. Shakespere knows the way too, he has been here many times I'm sure"

She laughed as they shared the joke, knowing the amorous dog must have been on many trysts with his girlfriend. She giggled as Darwin winked meaningfully at her. She looked down at the pups once more and looked up once more at Darwin.

Their eyes seemed to lock. Catherine became aware of the silence and the isolation of the cove once more. She caught her breath, her cheeks flushing. Once again, as had happened in the hut, she was unable to move.

She watched as Darwin reached out to touch her face and tip it towards him. His kiss was gentle, a mere shared breath as he grazed her lips with his. This time both his arms moved around her and drew her towards him. She felt the warmth and hardness of his chest beneath her cheek and gradually became aware of the length of his body.

Catherine flushed hotly, a delicious shiver running through her. Darwin’s arms held her securely, yet gently, she felt weak and unable to pull away. .. But Catherine knew that she did not want to pull away: Although she was unnerved by her sudden awareness of his body as it pressed so intimately against her and amazed at her own reactions to his embrace, somehow she knew that she was safe with Darwin.

Catherine raised her head shyly as his mouth moved to cover hers once more, she felt his arms holding her still closer, moulding her body to his. The kiss deepened, sending a jolt through Catherine’s body.

She moaned softly.

Aware suddenly of the depth of the emotions they were unleashing, the two broke apart.

Unsure of who broke the kiss, Catherine’s eyes and Darwin’s met.
Each mirrored the other’s surprise:
Each seemed shocked by the intimacy they had just shared.
Catherine’s cheeks flamed, her eyes vulnerable as his gaze remained steadily on her, as she stared wordlessly aware that her breathing was ragged.

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Looking deep into Cartherines eyes he saw mirrored there, his passion, his desire to mate with her, to show the feelings that were streaming through his body he knew that some of these feelings came from the excitement of the evening sharing her excitement in the dance feeling her ever close to him and now in the beauty of this place sharing the naturalness of nature,They both felt her magic and her meaning.
Darwin wanted to share with Catherine this magic.He wanted to show her the joy and wonder that comes when two bodies come together with the natural desire to bring pleasure to each other.

His hands went unconsiously to his Tahari shell pulling the cord to bring it over his head and towards Catherines head. He caught himself halfway realizing that she may not even understand. That she might not be ready for this sharing and not return the gesture.

The spitit of love, of life of all existance was in the shell and Darwin knew that if he gave his shell to her he was dedicating his love and life to her. But was he even ready for that did he know what love was? He knew that he had never felt this way about any woman or girl before Catherine, but was he ready for this kind of commitment. They hadn't even sampled yet. he smiled thinking about sharing the many feelings that he was feeling for her about the many discoveries they would make about each other if they decided to sample . His hands dropped his shell back to his chest and he grinned down at Catherine.

"I think I love you Catherine and I want to find out for sure."

We've much to learn about each other before we continue on the path that we were about to take. He took her hand and whistling to Shakespere sent him relulctantly ahead following the path to the village. They glanced behind them all of them reluctant to leave this beautiful place but knowing that tomorrow they would return.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine stood breathlessly, her eyes locked with Darwin’s. She saw him touch his tahari shell and moved her hand to hers as he did. She clasped the beautiful object without realising the significance.

She let out a tense breath as he broke the tension with a boyish grin.

Even as she relaxed, she started at the words he spoke to her.

"I think I love you Catherine and I want to find out for sure."

She turned worried eyes on him. What did he want? How did he want to find out?

”We've much to learn about each other before we continue on the path that we were about to take.”

She looked confused at his words, but smiled as he took her hand and started following the path, which led back to the village.
Although the feel of Darwin’s hand was reassuring, Catherine could not help but wonder what he meant… “the step we’re about to take…” She wondered what step he referred to. She was astounded by her reaction to his touch, his kiss. Her mind reeled in confusion. Her feelings were unexpected, but not … unpleasant. She looked around her. The sky was so dark, except for the stars. She looked up and gazed, stumbling as she did so. She gave a soft gasp as Darwin caught her.

They exchanged a smile, then Darwin drew back to settle her on her feet once more, but she took hold of his hand and raised her face to his.

“Darwin..” She began hesitantly..

“I..I don’t know what happened back there… I don’t know … how I feel.. about..anything…”

She blushed in confusion.

“I..I’m not sure what … steps… I’m ready for ... right now…”

She looked at him helplessly willing him to understand. She was an innocent, unused to the desire that had shot through her in the cove. She did not want to reject him, but was both awed and frightened by the unexpected declaration of his feelings.