Lost In Paradise

[afternooner]

Darwin

Darwin smiled down at Catherine. He was now in control of his feelings and saw in her eyes and in her voice, her confusion. Had she felt love too and not known what it was. Had she not loved before he wondered. She seemed innocent yet there was about her a certian confidence like she had had some experience that made her sure of herself, her feelings. Maybe she had never felt this way before like Darwin himslf felt, having experience but not one just like this.


"Catherine he whispered I'm not sure either, only a little what I've been taught, what I've experienced but nothing like this feeling. The best way I can describe it is that it's magic There's magic in the air when I'm with you and I want to feel this magic all the time. If you feel it too then don't worry for we will explore this magic together . He took her into his arms. "Feel the magic flow between us. let it flow and when it starts to trouble you don't be afraid to pull back to find a safe place to be. I'll do the same knowing that no matter what, when we want it back, the magic will be there.

Shakespere was ahead giving them a balefull look It was late and if he couldn't spend the night with his girlfriend, he wanted to be back in his bed. Darwin put his finger to Catherines lips as she began to speak

"Shh lets just get back. It's late and Mam will worry."

Back in the village all was quiet. he didn't realize how much time had past. He smiled to himself, after he kissed Catherine good night thinking again about the magic and how time seems to not exist when it's around.

Shakeshere setteled down beside Cathines bed as if it were his place to be and Darwin went to his hut, a smile still on his face.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine stood looking up at Darwin. Her eyes searched his. He touched her hand and whispered softly to her.


"Catherine, I'm not sure either, only a little what I've been taught, what I've experienced but nothing like this feeling.”

She breathed relieved that she had not imagined the intensity of their feelings.

“The best way I can describe it is that it's magic There's magic in the air when I'm with you and I want to feel this magic all the time. If you feel it too then don't worry for we will explore this magic together.”

Again he drew her into his arms. His voice continued, speaking softly, hypnotically as she listened, pressed against his chest.

"Feel the magic flow between us. let it flow and when it starts to trouble you don't be afraid to pull back to find a safe place to be. I'll do the same knowing that no matter what, when we want it back, the magic will be there. “

She nodded. She was overwhelmed with tenderness for his understanding, his consideration. She wanted to tell him, but as she began to speak Darwin put a finger over her lips. She shivered at the touch.

"Shh lets just get back. It's late and Mam will worry."

Again silent, Catherine nodded. They joined hands and accompanied by Shakespeare, they strolled back to the village.

It was pitch black and silent by the time they got back. Silent, that is apart from the sound of the waves, the rhythmic crashing seemed to melt into the background now she had become familiar with the sound as an accompaniement to the Island.

Catherine and Darwin kissed a warm, but safe goodnight.

Catherine moved to her room, making sure she did not wake Darwin’s mother, assuming her long asleep. She giggled as Shakespeare jaunted along with her.
She quickly stripped off the native outfit and slipped naked and exhausted into the bed. She sighed, a smile on her lips and dropped immediately into a deep deep sleep.

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Awake before the sun Darwin stretched and yawned His face broke into a smile as he rememberd last night. Never in his life had he felt so at peace with himself, never in his life did he have so many plans and dreams. All because of Caterine he thought as he formed a mental picture of her. Her dark hair swirling around her shoulders, as she danced, her dark eyes looking up to him innocently trusting him. Her sweet kiss and her warm body as he held her last night. He felt a warm feeling coming over his body and his manhood began to swell.

Time for a swim he said firmly to himself.

He lept out of bed and headed for the door stoping suddenly remembering his condition down below. He grabbed his swimsuit and pulled it on and added a towel around his waist as he ran through the door and back behind to the pool Tossing the towel on a bush he dove headfirst into the water just as the rooster began to crow anouncing either his arrival or the suns which was now coming up.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine slept sweet and deep. Shakespeare laid snuggled close as her motionless body slumbered on.

As the first rays of dawn broke through the window, Catherine opened her eyes. She had not slept long, but felt refreshed. She stretched and found her body felt heavy. The weight of the dog and the sheets wound closely around her body had made her body feel overheated and she craved the cooler air that dawn brought.

Slipping out of bed, without disturbing a dopey Shakespeare, Catherine stood naked and flexed her limbs. She smiled remembering the dancing and then the walk afterwards... and the way Darwin had held and kissed her. She hugged herself and giggled.

Moving to the door and opening it slightly, she saw once more that there was no sign of Darwin's mam. Discarding the swimsuit this time and slipping into a bikini, which under other circumstances would have been classed as.. scanty at best, she took a towel and walked out to have an early morning dip.

Strolling, humming to herself, she did not realise until she actually stood before the pool that someone was there before her. With a jolt she realised that Darwin was returning her surprised gaze. Momentarily she forgot she were wearing the tiny scraps of yellow cloth which seemed barely to hold to her tanned skin.

"Good morning..."

She finally managed to say, as she spoke shyly, softly and stood, unself consciously, the towel trailing at her side.

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Darwin was trying not very sucessfully to cool down in the warm water of the pool, when he heard a sound of footsteps coming. he moved to deeper water where his obvious erection wouldn't be so obvious. He looked up to see Catherine silhouetted against the morning sun. She appeared to be naked until Darwin shaking his head realized that she was wearing something, a very revealing bikini. Some how it made her even more enticing as the swell of her breasts pushed out and around the scanty top and her bottom cupped her rounded mound revealng a line that dissapeared between her thighs.

Darwin felt his erection push against his swimsuit and was thankfull that the water was up to his waist.

He cleared his throat and trying to sound nonchalant answered.

"Good morning, come on in the waters great this morning".

Waiting for her answer he hoped she wouldn't come to close at least untill he had some time to relax.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

"Good morning, come on in the water's great this morning".

Catherine smiled as she heard Darwin's invitation:

"I was so hot when I woke up, I needed to cool off."
She explained as she moved into the water.

As the cool water lapped the bare skin of her midrift, she belatedly became aware of her bikini. She glanced over at Darwin, who was enjoying the coolness of the deeper areas of the pool and dismissed the shyness that had momentarily crept upon her.

The sun shone on the dark riot of hair that hung loosely framing her face. She moved towards Darwin, as the water got deeper, she sat down in the water and allowed the water droplets to play over her breast, cooling her heated skin.

"Mmmmm.. that is so good,"

She breathed as she allowed her head to fall back in the water, raising it again to enjoy the cascade of water through her thick mane as her hair fell in a curtain and stuck to her bronzed back.

She ran a hand lightly over her face, to dispel the water droplets that had jumped there and allowed her hand to brush over her shoulders, her breasts and down her sides as she traced the outline of her own body, enjoying the feel of her now cooled skin.

She raised dancing eyes over to Darwin, knowing how he too enjoyed a morning dip. Planning mischief, Catherine could not hold back a giggle, as she launced herself across the pool, flung her arms about his shoulders and wound her legs around his body in an attempt to unbalance him...

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Watching Catherine basking in the water only made Darwin more aroused. His erection getting harder still, he tried to look away, but he was captivated by the sight of her body moving through the water her long dark hair around her bare shoulders brushing up against the taut yellow cloth that barely covered her breasts he tried to mask the excitementin his eyes hoping she wouldn't misinterpet his desire .

AS she sat in the water herlower body hidden Dawrin tried to relax but looking in her sparlking eyes found that as well aroused him. He thought of her as a mermaid inticing him with her beauty, but then remembering how when she walked into the water the sight of her long legs and thighs and the litle scrap of cloth that covered her mound excited him., he knew she was so much more a woman, waiting to be loved.

By him, he hoped some day . His musing stopped when she flung herself into his arms and surounded his waist with her crossed legs.

He moaned in pleasure at the feel of her warm tummy against his bulging manhood and then remembering his vow to not go too fast, tried to pull away. Too late they fell together into the water.The tension was eased as they came back to the surface still connected. Darwin looked into Catherines eyes knowing she could feel his hardness against her, but hoping she would understand.

When she seemed confused he kissed her on the forehead and said quietly don't be afarid of that, looking down where they were touching. I'ts just like a kiss, part of the magic of learning to love someone. He hoped this simple explaination would sufice at least for the moment and then he thought of Einstien the smartest man on the island. His face beamed as he announced .

"I know where were going today... to see Einstien.... He'll help us with this delemma were in and if not we'll have a wonderfulll day any way.

"Here, let me wash your back and I'll tell you about Einstien."

He found a cloth, his erection had disappeared with this new idea and as he washed her he told her about the sheep herder in the hills.

Up on the plateau high above the village, Einstien watches the sheep.Iit's beautifull up there the air is so clean and clear one side looks out over the ocean hundreds of feet below, and the other rises even higher turning into the forest that surrounds the volcano. He kissed her back and neck and wraped his arms around her from behind not afraid to be close now that his problem had vanished. He desired only to be with her now to share other things than his desire for he body.

As he nuzled her neck he whispered.

" Don't be afraid of the magic, Catherine it will not hurt you".

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine giggled as she enveloped Darwin’s body with her own, but heard him moan huskily, instead of the cry of objection she had expected him to make. As they fell together in the water, Catherine’s half naked body brushed the length of Darwin’s and she felt his so obvious arousal.

Without time to react, Catherine felt the momentum of her lunge pull them down, as Darwin’s hands pulled her tightly to him and together they disappeared under the surface of the water.

Spluttering, still locked together, they laughed as they both broke the surface and gasped getting their breath back. Their bodies still touched. Catherine shivered, feeling as if she were naked. So much of her exposed flesh was pressed against Darwin and she could still feel his manhood brushing against her.

Catherine caught her breath sharply as she felt his hardness throb and felt him twitch as he made contact with her sparsely covered mound.

Darwin kissed her forehead gently and reassured her softly:

“Don't be afraid of that, It’s just like a kiss, part of the magic of learning to love someone.”

She smiled shyly, accepting his explanation, stunned by the hot arrow of awareness that shot though her own body and knowing he would take it no further.

"I know where were going today... to see Einstien.... “

She smiled at his change of tone, warm, but friendly, the intensity put aside for the time.

“He'll help us with this dilemma were in and if not we'll have a wonderful day any way.

She was pleased of the distraction of his voice whilst she stilled her own body. She wondered where this Einstein lived and hoped they would still visit the cove, if not that day, then some day soon.

"Here, let me wash your back and I'll tell you about Einstein."
She turned to let him reach her back as he took up a cloth.

”Up on the plateau high above the village, Einstein watches the sheep.”

His voice was hypnotic, calming, as were the soft strokes as he drew the cloth across her back.

“It’s beautiful up there the air is so clean and clear one side looks out over the ocean hundreds of feet below, and the other rises even higher turning into the forest that surrounds the volcano.”

Catherine shivered as Darwin kissed her back and felt his arms wrap around her. She was so aware of his strong body, close, but not touching this time.

His breath was on her neck as he whispered,

" Don't be afraid of the magic, Catherine it will not hurt you."

She was silent as she considered his words.

“I’m not afraid, Darwin.” She responded softly.
“It’s just…”

Her words faltered.
She tried to make sense of her jumbled thoughts.

He was from another world.
She had been here for so short a time, but her father and the problems of being “trapped” here for a month had all but disappeared.
All that filled her mind now was this man and his mother and this island.
All so primitive, yet so natural and for the first time, she felt that she was finding herself and was being astounded by what she discovered.

She turned to face Darwin. They stood close.
Her eyes looked into his, their expression searching.

“I’m not what you think I am Darwin.” She gave a sigh as she confessed:

“I’m a spoiled little rich girl, running away from a strict daddy and too much pampering… and when I see you and your mother and all this… “

She gestured to encompass the island, their humble huts, but meaning the very spirit of the place. She sighed, unable to put it into words.

“… you wouldn’t like what I really am, Darwin,”
She murmured softly.
“ … this isn’t me…”

Her voice was soft, but insistant.
She wanted to let him down now, tell him what she was before anything happened between them.
“Magic” wasn’t for the likes of her.

There was silence between them.

Catherine thought of how her father would react to her romping semi-naked with a native boy, no native man, she mentally corrected herself remembering his erection.
Daddy would not recognise his little girl.
“Little girl”.
That is how he had always treated her.
Like an ornament to show off and someone he expected obedience from. She was so sick of that, but..

Darwin watched as Catherine’s face, reading her emotions.

“..this isn’t me…”

She repeated, hoarsely,

“… but.. I wish it was…”

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

This isn't me....but I wish it was

The words confused Darwin as he had looked into her eyes and thought he saw who she really was. A compasionate caring woman unafraid to trust him and his mam. Willing to join them and their culture. He hadn't expected her to suddenly become one of them and he wouldn't want that any way. He cared for her the way she was.

He shook his head he had no way of telling her that would convince her of all this. And then he remembered what Einstien had said the last time he had visited him.

"Actions speek louder than words my son don't be afraid to let your feelings show".

He put his arms around her and pulled her head into his shoulder he patted her on the back and felt her soften against him her breathing against his chest was calm and quiet.

They stood there the water lapping at their bodies soothingly and the rooster crowed.

Darwin grinned.

"Time to milk the goat. run and change, mam should be home and she can help you pack a rucksack for the trip you'll need a change of clothes in case we get caught in the rain and some food to nibble on. wake up that lazy dog and tell him we are going to visit his brothers and sisters on the plateau where they are doing their jobs unlike him who only thinks of love."

he pulled away but still holding her hands he loked her in the eyes and seeing them sparkle lowered his gaze to her body.

"And bring that bikini, it's very becoming on you, it makes me realize that you are not a girl but a woman, he winked then turned as he was feeling his arousal again. Urging her to the waters edge they found their towels and headed for the huts.
His gait was light and carefree and his mind was in peace knowing that being himself was what would make Catherine the happiest and he had no problem being just that. He shook his fist in mock anger at the rooster and grabbing the pail went to do his chores.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Darwin looked at Catherine for long minutes, Catherine feared that he not seem to understand.

He shook his head then and she felt his arms about her as he drew her head on his shoulder. She melted into him. Their semi-nakedness forgotten as she relaxed against him and he stroked her calming her.

For infinite seconds all was still and quiet, save for their breathing.

Then the rooster crowed shattering the silence.

"Time to milk the goat. run and change, mam should be home and she can help you pack a rucksack for the trip you'll need a change of clothes in case we get caught in the rain and some food to nibble on. wake up that lazy dog and tell him we are going to visit his brothers and sisters on the plateau where they are doing their jobs unlike him who only thinks of love."

He grinned and released her.
His eyes danced as he teased:

"And bring that bikini, it's very becoming on you, it makes me realize that you are not a girl but a woman,"

She blushed and giggled.

She walked to the pool's edge and took up her towel.

With a wave, Catherine ran lightly back to her room to pack the change of clothes and ask his mam for some food.

She smiled, as if in a daze as she remembered how Darwin had held her closely, calming her. He acted as if he accepted her no matter what her past history.

She sighed. On the island it was so easy to forget the past. How much she just longed to put it aside.

She still had three weeks here, she realised with a start.

Somehow the prospect seemed very welcome...

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Looking forward to the prospect of spending the whole day with Catherine, Darwn quickly milked the goat and packed his clothes for the trip remembering his swim suit. He never wore one before when he was in the wilderness in fact he thought, his face turning into a grin he never wore it at all, before Catherine came to the island.

He had a serious feeling come over him when he considered that, realizing how his life had changed. He felt a sense of purpose though he couldn't exactly define it, but a feeling like he was no longer just living from day to day but thinking of the future.

On the way to mams house he gave the goat an extra ration of grain and patted her head. She turned and looked at him as if to say "what's gotten in to you Darwin that your so amiable today".

Meeting Catherine coming out Darwin stopped dead in his tracks her presence overcoming him.

"You're beautiful," he said restraining himself from rushing up and kissing her ". and then he blushed realizing that she looked no more beautifull than when they were in the pool together but he had just felt like saying it.

"It's.... well just because I feel so..... happy today."

Instead of kissing her he grabbed her hand and led her down the path into the forest. Oops he had forgotten about Shakesphere and he whistled and shouted "it's time to get moving loverboy. We'll stop and see your mate and pups on the way"

Shakeshere dashed out of the house in anticipation and soon was on the trail ahead of them.

They came to the clearing. Now in the sunlight it had become alive, mulitcoloured birds were every where and flowers of every colour and hue grew in the trees and on the meadow at their feet. A small stream they hadn't seen the night before tumbled down the rocky edge of the mountain and gurgled along untill it pooled up on the edge of the clearing. Monkeys chattered in harmony with the singing birds and butterflies seemed to be flitting everywhere tasting the nectar of the meadow flowers. Sakesperes love who Darwin found out from a neighbor was named maid Marian, was nursing her litter patiently. Darwin dug into his bag and found some food for her and patted her head affectionatly, welcoming her into the family.

He turned to see Catherine watching him, a look of winsome wonder in her eyes.

"It's part of the magic". Darwin said easily wanting her to feel the oneness of this experience.

The sunlight streaming through the trees caught in her hair the same as the moon the night before had done and Darwin caught his breath following the light as it seemed to catch fire there iluminating her face, her neck and shoulders. He stepped closer and facing her took her hands and brought them to his face.

"I'm just a man, a man who wants and needs sometimes to much perhaps but non the less its who I am.Don't be afraid to touch me or let me touch you. I'll never hurt You Catherine I never will... his voice trailed off but then he caught his breath and then letting it out along with it came the words.

" I love you Catherine."

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine slipped out of the tent. She had a light rucksack with food and a light jumper in case of the cold. By the time she’d got back to her room, her bikini had dried and she knew that they would be swimming again that day. She had pulled on her shorts over the bikini bottoms and pulled on a light muslim blouse, loosely buttoning it half way up. The curve of her cleavage was still visible, as was the bright yellow cups, which barely covered each rounded breast.

She was unaware of how voluptuous she looked as her shape was clearly outlined beneath the transparent material. Her only thoughts were of comfort and convenience, although she had kept on the scanty item of clothing as Darwin had been so captivated by it. What harm could it do after all?

"You're beautiful,"

She smiled at Darwin noticing his blush and responding with a blush of her own.
His response was all she could have wished for.

Before she could feel self-conscious and shy again, he grabbed her hand and led her into the forest. His boyish enthusiasm made her laugh.
She laughed still more when he belatedly called the dog along.
Amused that he had initially forgotten his pet.
She knelt down to pat the poor dog, but he barked with enthusiasm and ran ahead of them, obviously leading the way to his mate and the pups.

Hand in hand they walked on.
Her face glowed with pleasure as she watched the birds, the flowers, the trees.
The clearing was a riot of colour.
Then the noises bombarded her senses.
The stream bubbled and gurgled as it cascaded down to the pool, the monkeys and birds produced a cacophony of sound.
Her senses reeled.
The world smelled fresh, a sea tang in the air, mixed with the sweet essence of flowers.
Her hand was in Darwin’s. His skin warm and smooth encompassed her hand and held her secure.

Catherine was overwhelmed by a sense of well-being.

Soon she found herself looking down at the litter of new puppies.
They wriggled and latched on to their mother, suckling energetically. Shakespeare ran round, giving small barks as if communicating with his family. Catherine watched as Darwin pulled out food for the new mum and smiled as she ate it greedily. She was amazed to watch Shakespeare standing proprietarily as his mate fed. This gesture touched Catherine; normally he was such a greedy dog.

She turned to Darwin, wondering if he had noticed how fatherhood had affected his scavenging pet.

"It's part of the magic,”

Darwin’s voice was soft, almost reverent.

Catherine nodded wordlessly, turning back to the puppies now squirming in the sunshine.

She heard Darwin catch his breath then and turned, sensing his eyes on her.
His look was intense.
She met it not understanding, but drew close to her as he took her hands and drew them to his face.

There were just the two of them in that place.
All she was aware of now was the feel of his skin as his hands closed over hers, the feel of his face beneath her hand.

He spoke softly, his voice holding a tremor of emotion:

"I'm just a man, a man who wants and needs sometimes too much perhaps but none the less it’s who I am.”

Catherine stared up at him.
She knew him to be a man with needs and passions, so much more liberated than her.

“Don't be afraid to touch me or let me touch you. I'll never hurt You Catherine I never will... “

She smiled tremulously at him, knowing already, on some instinctive level that she was safe with him.

She started as he held her hands firmly and spoke breathlessly, as if the words were escaping from him:

" I love you Catherine."

She looked at him stunned.
Her heart was racing.
How could he love her, he didn’t know her?
Her old self cried.
But she knew he did.
She knew that there was some link between them.
Something deep, something she didn’t understand.
Something she could not name, yet.

“Darwin… “

She whispered his name, in one word communicating her own deep feeling for him, communicating her surprise at his own declaration, communicating a need she did not even know she had.

She moved forward then and moved her lips against his.
The kiss was light at first, but intensified as Darwin responded.

Catherine felt breathless, but could not draw away, did not want to.
She murmured softly as she felt his tongue invade her mouth.
Her body trembled as her own response shocked her.

Abruptly she pulled her mouth away, but placed her hands against his chest for support.

Her breasts rose and fell rapidly as her eyes searched his.

“Ohh.. god… “

She whispered, her voice hoarse with surprise and unexpected arousal,

“Wh..what just happened…?”

She looked up with a flushed and dazed smile at Darwin…

Darwin knew she wasn't denying or running away from the feeling, the magic, just trying to understand it, learn how to open herself up to it...

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

"w...what just happpened....?

Darwin wanted to say "the magic" but he knew that she felt it too that she understood it's power. He smiled and though he felt his arousal continuing, knew that there was time for more magic later.

He leaned over and plucked a blossom from a bush growing nearby a deep red soft velvety blossom.
He pushed back her blonde hair and placed it gently behind her ear. His fingers lingered there a moment and then dropped below and behind her ear he felt the softness there and felt her tremble. following a line down and around her neck he grazed her skin lightly until he reached the hollow spot just above where the curves of her breast pushed out against the tight fabric of her bikini. His hand followed the string that held her Tahair shell and placing it between his thumb and forefinger pulled it up from where it lay hidden between her breasts. His other hand took hers and guided it towards his string he looked into her eyes seeing a question there.

" Darwin?" she said her voice husky with desire, not knowing what to say further. He knew that she didn't understand the signicance of the shells and dropped the string and her hand.

"It's ok, he said softly there's time for this later". He pulled her into his arms and rocked her her head on his shoulder rocked her until the calm returned to both their bodies.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Darwin met Catherine's dazed look, with a smile.
His smile warm and familiar caused an answering smile to spread across her face.

She watched him pick a red blossom and felt his light touch as he tucked it behind her ear. She shivered as his fingers brushed the sensitive flesh. His touch then trailed slowly erotically down her neck, grazing across to her now jutting breasts.

His fingers traced the string which held the shell, tahari shell he had given her. There eyes locked as he caressed the beautiful object which had hung cossetted in her clevage. He took her hand and guided it to the string.

" Darwin?"

Catherine managed to utter.
Her eyes still on his as she let go of the string and shell.
Darwin smiled.
He read the longing in her voice, in her eyes, in the shuddering breath she took as she steadied herself with effort.

"It's ok, there's time for this later".

Again she felt herself drawn into his arms.
Her head pressed into his chest.
The closeness overwhelmed her.
Gently he stroked her back, her hair.
Gradually she felt her body calm.
Her breathing level.
Yet still her whole body was aware of his presence.

She looked up at him then.
Almost shyly.
Then her face split into a grin.
She was getting used to the intensity he aroused in her.
Each time it literally took her breath away.
But.. it was good... magical...

She touched the flower gently.
Stroking the velvet of a fragile petal.
The heady aroma filled her senses.
Like their feelings, she thought.
Heady, beautiful, but to be handled carefully.

They both realised, that if you grab for something rashly,
no matter how great your desire you have to possess it,
you run the risk of crushing the thing you crave the most ...

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Darwin watched Catherine as her fingers gently caressed the flower, careful not to damage it, but wanting feel the very essence of it.

He looked at her sweet face and thought of her as a flower, so vulnerable and trusting, showing her inner beauty, willing to share the essence of herself also. He shivered realizing the responsibility he had, not only to keep her safe and secure, not only to respond to her needs and be there for her when she tried to express herself, but even more, to control his natural needs and desires until she was ready to let him share them with her, until she was ready to share hers with him. He knew that time would come. He knew it from the moment he had placed the Tahari shell around her neck on that first day. He didn't admit it to himself then but deep down inside of him he knew it.

Looking at the flower and then at her he realized just how vulnerable she was. Lost on this island paradise, no way to leave, no one from her past that she could confide in, to trust her feelings to, to take care of her. Only him.

Strangely enough Darwin didn't feel burdened by these thoughts, only honored and this prehaps was the purpose he had wondered about before. He now had his purpose, his direction, the answer to his search for meaning. He put all these things together in his mind, purpose, meaning, caring for, being there, being trustworthy, sharing,friendship. They led to one word, a word he didn't think of much before Catherine had entered his life. That word was love. Love is what he felt and love is what he wanted, what he needed. A tear ran down his cheek but not a tear of sadness or regret but a tear of joy.

He turned his head upward toward the sunlight streaming down on them and gathering his emotions together pulled away.

"Come, Catherine we need to hurry before it gets late. Einstien awaits us at the high plateau.

He led her scrambling up the first gentle slopes and then in the steeper parts, helped her climb between the rocky ridges and up the steep incline.

The were out of breath when they finally rounded the last ridge and stopped just as they entered the wide meadow of the plateau. Tall lush grass grew here as the daily rain provided the moisture and the rich volcanic soil and sunshine nourished it.

looking at the far horizon they could see the ocean extending out beyond. to the right a staight wall up to the crest of the volcanoe ominously smoking above them. to their left and behind them the tops of the forest made them realize the extent of their climb.

They stood in wonder for a while catching their breath, even Shakesphere seemed awed by the spectacle before them.

Their revelry was broken by the bleating of the sheep as they rounded the corner ahead, busily grazing on the soft grass. They moved towards them and the sheep looking up moved ahead too and soon they were surrounded by the hungry herd Wooly mothers with half grown lambs who bounced about tring to catch a drink of milk from their mothers teats as they grazed.

Beheind them Einstien appeared, a bent over old man with a long white flowing beard. Darwin ran forward and greated him with a hug almost bowling the poor man over. When Catherine caught up Einstien smiled, his wrinkled face glowing with delight. he held out his arms.

"Come hear my child, I've heard so much about you."

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

The magic still wove it’s magic about them.
Darwin watched Catherine as she stroked the flower carefully.
Both were lost in thought and emotion.

His voice when he spoke was light, but held a tinge of softness, an audible memory of the intimacy they had shared.

"Come, Catherine we need to hurry before it gets late. Einstien awaits us at the high plateau. "

Taking her hand he led her up the gentle slopes.
They dropped hands as they began to scramble and climb higher, steeper, onwards…

Catherine as gasping for breath as they finally achieved the summit and stopped in exhaustion and awe as a sweet meadow was spread out before them.
Her eyes took in the lush vegetation.
A fertile beauty she had not seen the like of on the island.
The ocean and the volcano provided a stunning backdrop.
The place was a hidden paradise.

The bleating of the sheep urged them onwards to cross the meadow.
Grazing mothers, feeding lambs; the scene was idyllic.
Suddenly a figure appeared.
Catherine watched his hurried approach.
His beard waving before him.
She watched Darwin run and grab the old man enthusiastically.
She stayed where she was observing the touching scene, then advanced to join the two still hugging men.

Eistein’s eyes fixed on Catherine as she arrived by his side.
Happiness glowed in his face.

"Come here my child, I've heard so much about you."

She took a step forward and was surprised and delighted to find herself pulled into an amazingly firm embrace.

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Darwin watched as Einstein pulled Catherine into his embrace. He smiled knowing that he had made a good choice by bringing her here.

A lamb rubbed agains his leg and Einstien laughed

"I't a bottle lamb, Darwin, his mother has no milk so I've been feeding it from a bottle." He reached into a pocket in his robe and pulled out a bottle of warm milk. Here you do it Darwin". Darwin wandered off with the lamb behind him.


Einstien turned his attention back to Catherine. He sat down in one motion into a lotus position.

"Sit my child", he beconed her to sit the same as him facing him their croosed legs just touching.
He reached out and bending forward placed his hands on the sides of her face. then he took her hands and held them on her lap.

"Welcome to Tahari. You've come a long way to get here and a long way after you arrived. I see Darwin gave you a Tahari shell.It has guided you and will continue to as long as you wear it and believe in it's magic.

He looked deep into her eyes.

"I see confusion in your heart my child There is someone your father perhaps, whom you respect and admire, in your heart but it troubles you. It troubles you because you feel obligated to be the person your father wants you to be, but you have your own needs and desires too.

He saw Catherines eyes become wide with wonder unable to comprehend how Einstien can know so much about her, he rubedthe back of her hands.

"Dont worry my child it is part of the magic of Tahari."

His touch and his laughing blue eyes put Catherine at ease as he continued. You seem lost my child lost in paradise maybe, but dont worry ,sometimes one needs to get lost before they can be found. Your father wants what he deems best for you according to his own needs. Your needs are diferent and you must follow your heart to find yourself find you own needs and desires. Your Tahari shell will protect you until the time you decide to follow your heart and then your heart will lead you. I see
darwin in your heart also and it's obvious the way he looks at you you are deep inside of his heart also.

Darwin will help you too. Suddenly Einstien grinneI have to tell you though Catherine, Darwin is as open and as honest as a man can be but he is a man so ...Einstien grinned even wider.... his experience ..well he has done some sampling but really he knows less than he would let on to you so when you follow your heart, be gentle with him
He winked you know what I mean he is a man and his ego is fragile, be gentle.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

Catherine watched as Darwin wandered off to feed the lamb.
She watched it follow where he led, eager to be fed.
She turned back to find Einstein watching her quietly.

"Sit my child",

She marvelled at his dexterity as he sat lotus-style and she let herself gently down onto the grass all but mirroring his pose, cross-legged and curious.

Einstein’s eyes were steady as he reached forward and placed his hands on her face.
She opened her eyes in amazement, but made now protest as he took her hands in his and drew them to hold them on her lap.
Her hands captured by his gentle touch she listened as he welcomed her to the Island, the island of Tahari.

”I see Darwin gave you a Tahari shell.
It has guided you and will continue to as long as you wear it and believe in it's magic. “

His touch prevented her from reaching up to touch the shell, a habit she had adopted since the gift was made.
She looked questioningly.
Darwin often spoke of magic, yet she was not sure what the old man meant.

His eyes searched hers as he told her he saw her confusion, yet he did not stop at speaking merely of the shell.
As he continued, Catherine sat mesmerised by his words.

" There is someone your father perhaps, whom you respect and admire, in your heart but it troubles you.
It troubles you because you feel obligated to be the person your father wants you to be, but you have your own needs and desires too. “

Shock widened her eyes.
How could he know about her, about her father, the situation which was her reality and which seemed so … unreal … here on this Island?
As if he saw her worry, Einstein stroked the back of Catherine’s hand soothingly.

"Dont worry my child it is part of the magic of Tahari."

Again, that word, magic: the magic of the place.
Catherine felt a belonging, a sense of something her senses could not quite define.
Was that the magic they spoke of?

“You seem lost my child lost in paradise maybe..”

She nodded, acknowledging his wisdom and spellbound by his words.

”… but don’t worry, sometimes one needs to get lost before they can be found.

Your father wants what he deems best for you according to his own needs.
Your needs are different and you must follow your heart to find yourself find you own needs and desires.
Your Tahari shell will protect you until the time you decide to follow your heart and then your heart will lead you.

She listened to his wise words.
How did he know all this and what was best for her?
How could she find what were the right decisions to make?
How could the shell protect her?
From what...?

Again his steady soft voice interrupted her musings:

”I see Darwin in your heart also and it's obvious the way he looks at you that you are deep inside of his heart also.
Darwin will help you too.”

The blush that had pinked her cheek checked as Einstein’s grin disarmed her.
He told her how open and honest Darwin was.
Catherine also believed this to be true, but she was caught unawares at the wily old man’s further observation.

” … he has done some sampling but really he knows less than he would let on to you so when you follow your heart, be gentle with him.”

Sampling… she had heard the term several times and now understood the meaning she had previously inferred then dismissed.

She smiled as the old man winked.

”… you know what I mean he is a man and his ego is fragile, be gentle.

She nodded, her mind whirling with what she had been told, the advice she had received.
Denials sprang to her mind, but Einstein had a gift of cutting through the appearance and seeing inside to the truth beyond.

He had told her that Darwin was in her heart.
Catherine’s mind ran over the wealth of experiences they had shared in such a small space of time.
Darwin had always been gentle,
“open and honest” Einstein had said.
It was those qualities that appealed to her the most.
She was drawn to him and trusted him, but did she love him?

She turned her head back to Einstein, not contesting any of the comments he had made.

“But.. if I follow my heart… how will I find the way back?
If I discover my needs, my desires, then how will I return to what I was before?”

Catherine questioned quietly, trusting in the man’s wisdom and wanting to hear his reply.
Her real life and the life she had been leading on the island were such opposites; her great fear was how she could ever reconcile the two.
Though their worlds did not fit, Catherine could feel a force pulling her towards Darwin.
Now, reminded of her home life, she was confused.
She had a history in her own world, but she was coming to value his.

She looked intensely at Einstein, needing his answers:

“How can I leave what I was…how can I know what will make me happy, make me complete?”

She questioned earnestly.

 

[afternooner]

Darwin

Einstien listened to the first part of Catherines question. He smiled and gently carresed the backs of her hands calming her, comforting her.

"but ...if I follow my heart ...how will I find my way back?"

"My dear child, if you follow your heart you will find there is no way forward that dosn't lead back nor is there a way back that doesn't lead forward. this seems to be a paradox of sorts, but you must understand that life is not linear.it is not a straight line that goes only in one direction, as some would have you believe, rather it is a circle there is no begining or end, only change.

Observe the flowers in the meadow they spring from seed and grow. The warm rain uges them to blossom, they blossom and then send their seeds back down into the soil where they are brought to life by the fertile soil and the warm sunshine. is there a begining to a flower? no. Is there an end? no. the flowers life is one of change, no begining no end. so it is with your life, you change as you move through life but you are always returning to your past to find your future You become lost so that you can find yourself. Sometimes it is hard to know what is in the heart. many things are taught to us that do not come from our hearts but from someone elses. Other people want to help us but we must listen to our own hearts, not the wishes of others. Also we must listen to other peoples hearts, not to decide what is best for us but to help them discover what is best for them. When we know that we can let them follow their hearts and will not wish for them to follow ours.


"If I discover my needs, my desire, how can I return to what I was before"

Einstien smiled as he answered the second part of Catherines question.

"When you discover your needs and desires you will find that they were always there even in your past. you will find it a most wonderous experience to let them lead you to the future you want, which is determined by your past. You will blossom like the flower and glady let your seeds fall to the fertile soil to sprout again and again. Each time you experience this letting go, it will become more wonderous, building your future and returning you to the past. rising and falling as your heart desires never begining and never ending.you will change just as the flower changes but you will always return to your past. each time you return you will find new beauty new strength new resolve and you will experience even greater needs and desires that you will continue to enjoy even more.


"How can I leave what I was...How can I know what will make me happy?"

Einstien took Catherines small hands and guided them toward the Tahari shell curving her fingers around the warmth of its rounded surface.

I understand my child, right now your heart is trying to be in two places at the same time. It seems to have two ways it desires to go. That is what the magic of the Tahari shell is all about. By holding on to it you will be able to make the right decision. By trusting in its magic you will do what is good for your heart and what is good for your heart will make you happy. When you chose then you will hear what your heart wants. Trust the shell my child, for it is truly magic”.

He let Catherines hands go, permitting her to experience the magic of the shell by herself.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Catherine

The gentle stroking on the back of my hands was comforting.
I looked deeply into this wise man’s eyes.
His knowledge shocked me, but I did not question the wisdom in his words.

” … you must understand that life is not linear. It is not a straight line that goes only in one direction, as some would have you believe, rather it is a circle there is no begining or end, only change. “

I listened as he described the cycle of growth and pondered that perhaps I was growing, changing, though my roots would ever be the same.

”Is there a begining to a flower? no. Is there an end? no. the flowers life is one of change, no begining no end. so it is with your life, you change as you move through life but you are always returning to your past to find your future You become lost so that you can find yourself.”

I nodded trying to follow his argument. Some of this was confusing, but deep down the logic and the truth of his words shone out. His voice was soft as he continued:

”Sometimes it is hard to know what is in the heart.
Many things are taught to us that do not come from our hearts but from someone else’s.
Other people want to help us but we must listen to our own hearts, not the wishes of others. “

Again I think of my father and know that I have been taught much and had many expectations thrust upon me, which are not mine. Einstein tells of the need to listen to the heart of others and I realise my family has never listened to me. I realise I feel at ease here because I am heard and my differences are respected, even valued. I realise with a start that it is alright to be different, as long as I am true to myself. I had thought before that any closeness I have with Darwin is wrong because of who he is and who I am, but… perhaps if I realise we are just people, people drawn together and sharing ourselves openly, perhaps … more becomes possible…

Einstein continues to speak, answering my questions one by one:

"When you discover your needs and desires you will find that they were always there even in your past. You will find it a most wondrous experience to let them lead you to the future you want, which is determined by your past.”

He speaks of flowers blossoming in fertile soil and again I realise the change in me in the few days I have been on this island. I marvel that so much has happened in so short a time. I feel peaceful; at home.

”Each time you experience this letting go, it will become more wondrous, building your future and returning you to the past.

I listen but look confused as he continues.

”You will change just as the flower changes but you will always return to your past.
Each time you return you will find new beauty new strength new resolve and you will experience even greater needs and desires that you will continue to enjoy even more.

I try to understand how my past can be a source of strength, I realise my past is my foundation, not something to escape from, but something to build on, I nod and smile as partial understanding dawns.
.. and yet… still deep down there is a longing to leave my past behind.
I like what I have become and look back with shame on the shallow, spoiled little rich girl I have allowed myself to be moulded into.

How could I know what would make me happy?
Happiness... I felt happy now, but how could I hold onto that?

Einstien smiles as he sees my questioning look and guides my hands to the Tahari shell.
My fingers curl around it. The surface is rounded and smooth. I stroke the little grooves, which split up the warm surface.

”I understand my child, right now your heart is trying to be in two places at the same time.
It seems to have two ways it desires to go.
That is what the magic of the Tahari shell is all about.”

I hold the shell and look up questioning how this shell can help me.
Einstein explains patiently;

”By holding on to it you will be able to make the right decision.
By trusting in its magic you will do what is good for your heart and what is good for your heart will make you happy.
When you chose then you will hear what your heart wants.
Trust the shell my child, for it is truly magic”.

My expression is sceptical as he moves his hands away and lets me hold the shell myself.
The island is magical, his wisdom is magical, even the civilisation I find myself in is magical but this shell…?
I meet his serious dark eyes, however and find myself believing despite the common sense I have been raised with.
I gently stroke the shell and hold it lightly between my fingers.
I close my eyes.
I can hear the distant rhythm of the sea and the singing of the breeze.
It feels as if the little shell is throbbing; yet that must be my own pulse moving through my finger tips.
I smile feeling warmed in the sun and my heart lulls and feel tranquil.
I know Einstein is watching me, but the reverend stroke of the shell is my instinctive response, rather than a gesture to please the kind old man.
I realise that I carry no mask here, pretend nothing, never have I been so open, never felt so serene.
Slowly I open my eyes, blinking against he sunlight, feeling almost as if I’ve woken from a trance.
I meet Einstein’s eyes, see his approving smile, but realise that Darwin has now sat himself by Einstein’s side, watching me quietly, unwilling to interrupt.
I smile shyly at him and see a warmth in the grin he gives me in return.
Our gazes meet and hold. Each of us seems to be questioning the feelings of the other.
Finally I turn my eyes away and smile at Einstein.
I reach out and take his hand in both of mine.

”Thank you… you have given me much to think about…you’ve helped me so much…”

I lean forward and kiss the old worn cheek smiling my gratitude, unable to express the degree of insight he has given me, but as I draw back, I see his smile and know that he understands.
Without words, this incredible man seems to be able to know what is on my mind and in my heart, yet I find this comforting, reassuring …