Sapphic Voices Romance

IMAGES

Part Three

This is a novel - it builds upon itself. We do not have the beginning, the middle and the end within a few pages. This is a journey - please settle back and enjoy it.

There are a very few mild references to heterosexual sex, some bad language [relevant to the Story] and references to new and old songs - mainly British. I hope my American friends recognise the songs, however.

Chapter 11

Kathryn set her alarm for 7 a.m. before preparing for bed. She was really looking forward to the following day’s excursion, a trip to see her ‘World Vision’ sponsored child in the Kasonde region. She had visited the ‘World Vision’ office when they’d first arrived, ten days before and they had promised to organise a visit for her. Obert Gwazo, the office manager had told her that a car would be travelling up there soon so, if she and her companions would like to visit, he would arrange it. Early on the previous Friday, she’d received a phone call from Letitia Mushangwe, whom she’d met on her last visit. Letitia had told her that a four-wheel drive would be travelling to the community on Monday and if Kathryn and up to three of her friends would like to go with them, they’d be most welcome.


David had already professed a wish to go with her so she’d asked the band if anyone would like to join her. She’d seen the interest light up Storm’s eyes but the young woman had remained silent. Kathryn had told them that David was going with her and Kenny said he’d be keen to go. Cloud and Jim hadn’t look too enthused and Kathryn had gladly turned to Storm.

“Storm, I’m sure you’d enjoy it. How about coming along for the ride? Give me some female company.” Storm had lifted one shoulder with a touch of nonchalance.

“Yeah, I’ll come along. Should be interesting. Tell me about it.”

“Tell you what – I’ll explain all about it on the way. It’s a long drive, apparently. Two hours of sealed road to the nearest town, Chinhoyi, then at least an hour’s drive on an unsealed road to the project and the Kasonde school where Letween, my sponsored child, goes.”


Kathryn climbed into her comfortable bed and thought, with pleasure, about the day ahead. She always enjoyed her time with David and she’d found Kenny to be pleasant company. Her heart raced a little, however, at the thought of spending the full day with Storm. She’d tried to avoid being with her too much over the last few days, as her close proximity disturbed too much. Ever since they’d stood, arms touching, in the minibus, Kathryn had been aware of Storm as never before. She’d watched her performance on Friday night and she’d joined the male population in the room in their mass arousal. Storm’s movements had been mesmerising and provocative; but this time showing taste. She’d looked stunning in a sequin dress, with both stomach and lower back exposed. Her rendition of ‘Man, I feel like a Woman’ had brought the house down. Another song, which Kathryn hadn’t heard before, also received a great ovation. Kathryn had found out later that it was Storm’s own composition and Kathryn marked it down for inclusion on the band’s demo tape.

***

They climbed into the four-wheel drive Jeep at 7.30 the following morning, with David occupying the front seat and Kenny, Storm and Kathryn in the back. Once they were under way, Kathryn told them of the Kasonde project that was to supply water to the Mupfure Communal Lands which included the school and about ninety families in the area. It had provided dams, bore holes and a windmill. The project had also built classrooms and teachers’ accommodation, to attract the qualified teachers back to the rural areas It had organised a pre-school which now provided the young children with nutritional food and the project also provided some training courses.


Kathryn told the others that Letween had been her sponsored child for eighteen months and this was their first meeting. She’d brought some gifts for the school from Australia and some dresses and toys for Letween. The driver told them that after he’d made his deliveries to the school, he would be able to drive them to Letween’s house, which was four kilometres in a straight line but a few more by following the tracks.


They stopped off at a supermarket in Chinhoyi to pick up some fresh groceries as a gift to Letween’s family and to use the last toilet facilities for a long while. As they left the town, they also left behind the electricity and the telegraph posts. The bitumen road lasted for about two kilometres before it dwindled out into pot-holed red dirt. They made reasonable time at first as the four-wheel drive vehicle dealt easily with the ruts and ridges in the road. After about half an hour on the unsealed road the driver pulled to the side of the road. David looked questioningly at him. The driver said in his sing-song voice that it was no problem, just a puncture. They all piled out and Storm and Kathryn immediately went to the rear of the vehicle to help get out the spare and the tools. David and Kenny stood to one side, talking quietly while Kathryn and Storm loosened the wheel-nuts as the driver used the jack. The three of them man-handled the heavy wheel off and replaced it with the spare. The driver laughed and said they’d all have to pray they didn’t get another puncture as there was only one spare!


Within fifteen minutes they were moving again. Storm and Kathryn had used an old rag to wipe their hands. Kenny and David congratulated them on their endeavours, showing no shame at their lack of assistance.

“We knew you had it under control.” was David’s only comment.


Storm was interested in the carts they saw, each one being pulled by a bullock. She was also fascinated by the small dwellings which were set back from the road, pointing each one out as they passed them by. The driver told them that Letween’s family had a similar cluster of huts for their home. They pulled into the ‘World Vision’ office in Kasonde and were welcomed by the staff there. Letween and her father were also part of the welcoming committee and Kathryn gave Letween a hug, smiling reassuringly into the shy face. Kathryn was surprised when she saw Storm’s eyes glisten as she also bent down to give Letween a tight hug and to run a hand over the very closely cropped hair. They were shown to the school, where they met the headmaster, a Sydney Poitier look-alike. Chickens scattered as they moved around the school compound and Kathryn saw Storm looking round in wonder and delight. Kathryn made her donations to the school, amongst which were half a dozen soccer balls. The gifts were very well received by the 200 students, who had lined up for the ceremony. Having extra good soccer skills was sometimes the only way a young boy could break free from the circle of poverty in Zimbabwe. All the students sang a thank you song that brought a lump to Kathryn’s throat. Storm, who was using Kathryn’s camera to record it all, zoomed in for a close-up of Kathryn’s face and, through the viewer, watched her throat convulse as she tried to hold back her tears, the emotion at their response overwhelming her.


Letween was allowed to leave school early to accompany them in the vehicle to her home. The going was treacherous and the Jeep leaned over from one side to the other on the narrow dirt track. The driver took them as close to the group of huts as he could get and his usual smile was missing as he turned off the engine.

“I think we have a puncture.” He said to nobody in particular.

“Yeah, right!” Storm laughed, “Try to scare us, why don’t you?” The driver still didn’t smile and, as they jumped down to the ground they heard an ominous hiss. They stood and watched as the front tyre started to sink.

“Would chewing gum help?” Storm’s practicality came to the fore.

“Maybe.” The driver’s face was hopeful. Storm grabbed a piece from her bag and started chewing. She pulled it from her mouth and the driver took it, placing it over the tiny hole in the rubber. The hissing stopped momentarily but they could all see the chewing gum starting to lift. Kathryn had a thought. She went to her bag and took from her purse a small curved object that was wide at one end, then went to a point.

“What about this?” she asked. The driver looked at the miniature tusk taken, for safe keeping, from the small, black elephant that Kathryn had bought the day before. He said it looked perfect and they all watched as the tusk was pushed into the hole, filling it, with the widest bit sticking out a little.

“Way to go, kd. You’ve saved our lives. Let’s go and meet Letween’s family before this thing” she slapped the Jeep’s bonnet, “sprouts another leak!”


They scrambled down the slope and were invited into the biggest of the buildings. It was round, with concrete walls and a thatch roof. It had a diameter of about three to four metres and part of the inside space was taken up with a concrete bench which ran three quarters of the way round. In the middle, there was a rush mat and they learned that this was used as bed, chair and table. The family were all congregated, Letween, her mother, father, older sister and younger brother. They had organised a meal of chicken in gravy with a vegetable that looked a little like mashed potato, with very little taste. They were given a dish each and they followed the lead of the family by using their fingers and thumb to roll a little of the vegetable into a ball, before dipping it in the gravy and eating it.


Letween was delighted with her dresses and, immediately after the meal, tried one on, unconcerned with the fact that it was back to front and showed an expanse of flat chest. Storm gently showed her the right way to wear it and Kathryn was touched to see Storm and Letween sitting with hands clasped, the young girl staring up at Storm with admiring eyes. Kathryn caught Storm’s eye and winked at her, receiving a rather bashful smile in return. Letween’s mother was grateful for the fresh provisions and thanked Kathryn, holding her two hands within her own. Kathryn was a little embarrassed by the show of gratitude and, as she looked to one side, she caught an answering wink from Storm, making her chuckle.


The driver arrived in the hut with a sombre look.

“I am sorry, it did not work. The tyre is very flat. I have to go with Letween’s father to try to find another tyre. He thinks there may be one at a dwelling some distance from here.”

“Does anyone have vehicles around here?” David asked incredulously.

“No.” The driver was honest, “The only vehicle is the headmaster’s: but Letween’s father thinks that someone may have a wheel.” David looked sceptical and concerned looks passed between the intrepid adventurers.


After sitting in the hut for half an hour, Kathryn suggested they make their way up the hill, back to the vehicle.

“It’ll let these people get back to their own jobs and at least we’ll be there when the driver gets back, to find out what’s going on.” It made sense to the others so they said their good-byes and climbed the steep hill back to the Jeep. David and Kenny wandered off down the track and Kathryn and Storm sat under the shade of a tree. Kathryn didn’t want to spoil the growing friendship but she was worried and wanted to discuss with Storm the matter of the stalker. Firstly, however, she asked a question.

“You like children? You want to have some?”

“Yes, I love kids” Storm answered, a serious expression on her face, “but I don’t know if I’d want to have any - not unless the home environment was right. Not like ….” she hesitated then stopped, seemingly with an effort. “Oh, forget it. I don’t want to talk about it.” Kathryn waited awhile, then changed the subject; needing to persuade Storm of her possible danger.

“I know you won’t want to talk about this. However, please listen to me. It’s about this stalker.” She paused, seeking the words needed to convince Storm. “You think at the moment that it’s just a nuisance but it could be more than that. It could be dangerous.”

“How – dangerous? It’s just a weird guy with an attitude. Why are you so uptight about it?” Storm was smiling but Kathryn was in earnest.

“I’m ‘uptight’, as you call it, because I’ve experienced something similar: and, Storm, it was definitely dangerous. It could have been fatal!” Storm’s interest was caught.

“Why? What happened? What did he do? Did he attack you or what?” Kathryn felt her face become warm and she looked down, feeling that her every word was a weapon that could be used against her in the future.

“It wasn’t a ‘him’, it was a ‘her’: and, though it was me she was stalking, I wasn’t the one who was attacked; it was a ….friend of mine.”

“Who was she? Why was she following you?” Storm was insistent on details. Kathryn watched her own foot kick the small stones that surrounded them, as she explained to Storm.

“I was a lecturer and she was a student. I don’t know why she chose me to follow.” A small white lie didn’t seem amiss at this point. “I laughed it off at the time, just as you’re doing now. A friend advised me to go to the police but I was stubborn.” Kathryn looked up at Storm, her meaning obvious. “This was the friend who was then threatened with a knife and it was only lucky circumstances that took me there at that time so, together, we were able to overpower her. My friend could’ve died because I thought it was just a nuisance.” Kathryn found herself reluctant to admit that this 'friend' was actually the Bernice that Storm had met.


Kathryn saw Storm’s watchful eyes looking at her, trying to read between the lines, Kathryn was sure. Storm pondered the information for a while, her head slightly to one side and a small furrow between her eyes. She finally spoke.

“I can see why the idea of a stalker would worry you after that experience. Your friend? Was she…or he, all right?”

“Yes, we were lucky. Nobody was hurt. The girl was charged and I’ve never seen her since. Another person may not be as lucky though.” Kathryn’s habitual way of speaking in a non-gender specific form about her past life and loves was used yet again. Storm was still watching her, not giving any hints as to her thoughts. Kathryn went over the words she’d used and was confident she hadn’t given any clues to Storm of her previous sexuality. She was content that she’d sown the seeds of possible danger in Storm’s mind and, as she hadn’t been looking for a promise from Storm, she smiled with satisfaction and asked Storm to think about it at least; and she wouldn’t bring the subject up again.

***

There was still no sign of the driver and Letween’s father. Kenny and David had disappeared down the track to look out for their return. Storm asked Kathryn what would happen if they couldn’t find a wheel. Kathryn said that she rather thought they may be stuck there for the night as it was already nearly sundown. Kathryn supposed that, the next day, someone would go to borrow the headmaster’s car and they would be taken to Chinhoyi at least. Storm screwed up her face.

“It didn’t look as if it would be too comfortable to sleep on those rush mats, I think I’d opt for the Jeep.”

“Yes, I think I’d join you. We’d just have to …..” The sound of voices halted their conversation and, as they watched, Kenny and David came around a bend, followed by the driver. He was carrying a wheel but, on examination, Kathryn wasn’t too hopeful.

“OK, it’s a wheel but look at it! It’s half the width of the proper tyres, there’s absolutely no tread on it. Will it even fit the vehicle?” The driver said it would fit but he was looking doubtful whether it would make it over the unsealed road. His suggestion was that they drive to the school and see if the spare from the headmaster’s four wheel drive would fit. This seemed the most sensible idea, so they put the wheel on with Storm shaking her head pessimistically. The tyre seemed to retain its shape, so they piled into the vehicle and the driver nursed it back over the rough road, their hearts in their mouths every time the whole weight went over that particular wheel. Arriving at the school, they were disappointed to find the wheels incompatible, one rim having six nuts, the other, five. A decision had to be made; either sleep there the night, or attempt to make the journey, at least to Chinhoyi. They knew it would be inconvenient for the headmaster to lose his transport for a day or two, so couldn’t ask to borrow his vehicle. They decided to take a chance. The wheel had held up over the roughest part of the journey, so they hoped it would manage the rest.


They set off slowly, with the driver still taking it very tentatively. The sun had already disappeared and the short twilight was coming to an end which made driving even harder. They were soon in total darkness, the only lights for miles around were the Jeep’s headlights. The going became even slower and they realised that, if the tyre made it at all, it was going to take them at least two hours to reach the town. Talking became sporadic, words only whispered. Everyone was watchful and nobody felt like sleeping. They all kept taking surreptitious looks at the odometer to check the distance still to go. The Jeep sloughed off to one side at one time and the occupants thought that their gamble had failed. The driver said no, it wasn’t the tyre, he’d had to avoid a small animal that had been mesmerised by the headlights. Storm’s hand found Kathryn’s in the darkness and it was squeezed gently in reassurance. Kathryn leaned across and whispered in a reassuring tone.

“I really think we may make it, you know.” She touched her forehead. “Touch wood, I think that bit of rubber is going to surprise us all.”


Half an hour later, Kathryn was proved right and they pulled into an hotel in Chinhoyi for the driver to use the phone and for them all to have a very welcome drink. Though it was only 8.30 p.m., they’d found no garage facilities in town that could fix their punctures, so they had decided that, once they’d finished their drink, they would continue on the highway for as long as they could. A ‘World Vision’ car had been dispatched from Harare to meet up with them and escort them back to the hotel. At 11 p.m., the Jeep pulled up outside the Crown and dropped off the four weary passengers, who all looked at the front offside wheel with amazement. The scruffy, bald tyre was still there, still intact, the air still trapped inside. Storm touched it with her foot.

“Thanks, pal. We owe you!”


Storm watched the back view of Kenny and David as they walked through the door to the hotel and realised she’d let her charade with Kenny slip a little. She decided she would have to spend more time with him to keep the pretence going in Kathryn’s mind. Kenny had been going out rather a lot himself in the last few nights and, though he hadn’t confided in her, she thought he might have met someone. She hoped he wouldn’t get his heart broken with a holiday romance. She’d helped him recover from many disastrous affairs with completely inappropriate men, over the years. She hoped he would soon find a partner he could settle down with, even though it would leave her a little more vulnerable. She determined to have one of their regular heart to heart talks as soon as possible.

***

The man slammed the phone down.

“Where the fuck are you?” He asked, looking around the empty room as if for an answer. He’d rung her continuously for the last week and not even got the answering machine! He’d stood outside her home on numerous occasions without getting the reward of seeing her. She’d just disappeared – along with the rest of the band. He’d found out that all their gigs had been cancelled. “What the hell is going on?” His voice had an edge to it, irrational anger gripping him.


He lay on the bed remembering the evening she’d spent with him, her body rubbing up to his, her lips millimetres from his own. She’d wanted him. Oh, yes! She’d wanted him. His face contorted as he heard again her careless comment in the car park that she had decided to drive herself home after all as she was ‘bloody tired’. He’d been livid! All his mates had known he was going to have her that night. It was his turn! He’d been damned if he was going to tell them he’d missed out – that he was the only one not to get a piece of her. He’d told everyone the next day that they’d fucked themselves silly all night. Whereas, in reality, he’d followed her home and sat in his car until the early hours of the morning!


His anger disappeared as quickly as it had arrived. He smiled.

“We’ll get together soon, my love. You’re going to love every minute of it. Hurry back from wherever you are – come home soon, to poppa!

Chapter 12

Storm dressed for the Wednesday evening’s performance in a new outfit, bought that day. She’d loved the figure hugging hipster pants, thanking her genes once more for the slim hips and legs! Her skimpy top clung to her upper body like a second skin, emphasising her figure and reaching down to just above the navel. She flung on the colourful, African shirt she’d also bought that day, liking its native look. She knew that Kathryn would love the shirt, she was only hoping she’d love the top, too. Storm was honest with herself: she knew that she was starting to dress to impress, though sometimes shock, Kathryn; wanting, even needing, her attention.


Storm's thoughts over the last couple of days had been monopolised by Kathryn, even though she’d seen little of her. She’d been thinking of Kathryn’s stalker, realising that she must have been infatuated. She wondered what it would feel like to be infatuated with another woman and had tried to put herself in the unknown woman’s shoes. Only this evening, Storm had looked at Kathryn across the dining table, studying her face, her body. What would it be like to stroke that face, kiss those lips? They would be soft and they’d part slightly in invitation. What about her shoulders, her breasts? What would they be like to touch, stroke or gently squeeze? Storm had found her breathing had become short and fast as her imagination took over. Even later, as she was dressing, she felt again the charged beat of her heart, surely stronger than normal! Storm looked at the reflection of her flushed face and shining eyes with exasperation. ‘Why have these feelings now, for God’s sake? You’ve had plenty of opportunities for them in the past. Why now? Why her? Pull yourself together, girl. We ain't going nowhere, that way!’


There was a knock on her door.

“Come in. It’s open.” she called. The door opened and David walked in, a frown forming on his ruggedly handsome face.

“Storm! For goodness sake, don’t call that out! In fact, I would much rather you kept the door locked. It could’ve been anyone knocking.” Storm batted her eyelashes and assumed a seductive look, speaking in a provocative, husky voice.

“If there’s a chance of a hunky guy like you walking in – why wouldn’t I? I’d be mad to keep you out!” David grinned, recognising Storm’s play-acting and following suit.

“And if I hadn’t already lost my heart, I’d be locking the door right now – from the inside!” Storm laughed but kept the snippet of information, playfully given as it was, for further thought.

“Well, now you’ve broken my heart you can tell me what I can do for you.”

“It’s a favour, actually.” David grinned again at Storm’s raised eyebrows. “No, not that sort of favour!” he continued, “You know that the African American convention is here in Harare next week?” Storm nodded.

“Yes. I’ve been hearing all about it from some of your reception staff. It’s going to be huge, I gather.”

“Yes, enormous. They’re coming from every African nation, along with a big contingent from the USA. That’s actually my problem. We’ve been asked to accommodate another twenty guests. I can fit most of them in with a little rearranging but I’m short one room. It’s for a couple, and they would be able to happy with a double bed in a single room. My request is that you allow Kathryn to share this room, as there are two double beds here.” Storm hesitated, her recent thoughts fresh in her mind but she knew what her answer would have to be - was always going to be.

“Yes, of course that’s OK. Is Kathryn all right with it?”

“I haven’t actually asked her yet.” David answered ruefully, “I know she’d say it was an imposition to ask you, so I wanted your OK first; then I can put it to her as a ‘fait accompli’.” He looked at Storm’s doubtful face. “Oh I see! You mean, would she be OK about sharing? Yes, she’ll be fine. She’ll always do anything to help me. She’s a terrific woman, you know. Hey! – I love your outfit by the way. Do you mind if I just ….?” He leaned forward and altered the tie around the waist of the shirt, to allow it to fall more gracefully. “There! That’s better. See you downstairs in a while. I’m going to take Kathryn to the ‘Safari’ night-club later. I’ll talk to her then. We’ll watch you guys first, though. Have a good time up there on stage, tonight.” With a last wave he walked out of the room, calling as he started down the passage.

“Lock the bloody door!!”

***

“One, two three four.” Storm paced the beat with her hand and launched into ‘Gloria’, giving it an extra something as she usually did with this, Kathryn’s favourite song. She reached the chorus once more.

‘Gloria, don’t you think it’s funny
If everybody wants you
why isn’t everybody ca.a.alling’ She pulled at the tie on her shirt, watching Kathryn’s reactions.

‘You don’t have to answer
leave them hanging on the li..i..i..ne
Morning Gloria’. She slipped off the shirt and heard the collective ‘aahh’ from the room as her tight top emphasised the bounce of her breasts, as she danced across the stage.

‘Will you marry for the money
take a lover in the afternoon
feel your innocence slipping away
don’t believe it’s coming back soon


Now, you really don’t remember
was it something that they said
all the voices in your head
morning Gloria . a a’.


Storm could see Kathryn’s eyes riveted on her, seemingly following the sway of her breasts. She felt a tingle as she became aware of her hardened nipples, straining against the slightly coarse, dimpled fabric.

‘I think you’ve got to slow down
before you start to blow it
I think you’re heading for a breakdown
be careful not to show it
Morning Gloria..a..a..a’.


The song finished in a crescendo, Storm’s arms wide, legs apart, head thrown back. The sound of whistles and clapping were reward for her performance. Her eyes strayed once more at Kathryn, alone for once at the bar. Storm winked, for Kathryn alone. Kathryn lifted a hand in acknowledgment before joining in the applause.


The room filled steadily as the Stormclouds played for another hour or so and the dance floor became crowded. Storm caught a very quick glimpse of David, who gave her a thumbs-up sign, either at the performance, the packed room – or both.

***

When they’d finished and packed away, Storm was still on an adrenalin-induced high.

“Who’s for partying on?” she asked the others. “Let’s go to the ‘Safari’ club. Jim and Cloud agreed with alacrity, the hype of the performance still making their pulses race, needing an outlet. Storm was surprised when Kenny was also enthusiastic, as he’d made himself scarce after most performances and, for that matter, most other evenings. Storm still hadn’t had the planned talk with him and she hoped that his willingness to go out with them wasn’t a sign that the new romance had died.


They arrived at the ‘Safari’ soon after midnight and tried to adjust their eyes to the dim light. Storm bought drinks for them all, choosing a water for herself. They found a space against one wall, putting their drinks on the ledge provided. The strobe lights kicked in, making it difficult to pick out individuals on the floor, or the surrounding area.

“Come. Dance.” Jim shouted above the volume of the music, taking Storm’s hand. Relations between Storm and Jim had improved considerably since arriving in Zimbabwe. She guessed it was her more mellow attitude that Jim found easier to deal with, as opposed to her previous aggression. Consequently he’d been less chauvinistic and had been more enjoyable to work with; with fewer clashes between them.

“Yeah, sure – if you can keep up!”

“Just watch me!” he grinned.


They danced, with Kenny joining them on occasions. Storm saw Cloud using his famous charm on a girl who was sitting at the bar and, a while later, saw them dancing together. Kenny left the floor for a break and Storm glimpsed him, through the crowd, talking to someone she couldn’t see. ‘Maybe he’s found Kathryn and David.’ Storm hoped. She tried to look but couldn’t see past a tight-knit group of revellers. When thirst drove them from the dance floor, she still hadn’t caught sight of the couple she was looking for: either on the dance floor or it’s surroundings.


They found Kenny with fresh drinks ready for them.

“I thought you’d have had it, round about now. There you go guys.” He handed the drinks to them. “Have a squiz at that.” he nodded towards the dance floor
“Jesus!” Jim exclaimed, while Storm was still looking around the dance floor. “Over there.” Jim pointed and Storm saw the unmistakable back view of Kathryn and, over her shoulder, a gyrating David.


Storm could understand Jim’s exclamation. The two of them were ‘dirty dancing’, in a tiny pocket of space and it was possibly the best display that Storm had ever seen. David’s hand was resting on Kathryn’s hip, her hands lightly around his waist. David’s legs were slightly spread, Kathryn’s body fitting snugly against his groin. They were moving, swaying, rotating, against and with each other: the slow, steady beat of Lenny Kravitz’s ‘American Woman’ dictating their rhythm.


As Storm watched; David, with hips still circling, slid his body down; down past Kathryn’s stomach, her thighs, never losing contact with the swaying form pressed up against of him. Kathryn’s hands were now resting on David’s shoulders, her head was thrown back, her eyes closed, lips slightly parted. He slowly moved back up her, the friction of his body drawing her shirt up, showing a tantalising glimpse of white.


Storm’s heart was pounding, her legs feeling weak. Their movements were hypnotic, arousing. Kathryn’s head dropped forward, meeting the top of the ascending head and, as he slowly straightened, her lips burned a trail down David’s face as it came level with her, then rose above her. David suddenly spun Kathryn around, his pelvis now against her back. His fingers lay lightly on her waist before flexing, pulling her closer to the rhythm of his hips. His arms encircled her body, not quite touching her, his cupped hands crossed over her chest, tantalisingly close to her breasts. Storm’s thoughts were in turmoil, conflicting desires battling – not wanting David’s hands to close the gap but, at the same time, willing his hands closer; imagining they were her own, getting ever nearer; her fingers grazing the swellings, filling her palms with their heaviness.


The song came to an end and Kathryn’s head leaned back, resting on David’s chest. His head came forward and he lightly pressed his lips to Kathryn’s. The small crowd that had backed off, allowing them space, clapped briefly in appreciation and the couple smiled their acknowledgment.

“Jesus Christ!” Jim repeated, not finding any new expletives. “Whatever happened to the up-tight broad who became our manager?” Storm looked at Kathryn’s loosened hair, her face flushed from dancing: the laughing expression as she hugged David as they walked from the dance-floor and she wondered the same. Bernice had hinted at an elusively different, exciting Kathryn behind the cool, business-like facade. Storm was intrigued; and hungered to know what secrets were hidden behind that rather haughty exterior. A song came unbidden into her head and she sang softly, beneath her breath.

‘Where do you go to
my lovely
when you’re alone
in your bed
tell me the thoughts
that surround you
I want to
look inside your head’


Feeling a little like a voyeur, Storm did not want to be seen by Kathryn. She didn’t want Kathryn to know she had watched their intimate performance. Storm asked Jim and Kenny if they were ready to go. Kenny looked at her with a hint of perplexity. She ignored the ‘why now?’ look in his eyes, stating flatly that she was really tired. They accompanied her back to the Hotel and Kenny saw her up to her room.

“Did you want to have that talk now?” he asked with concern.

“No, not now. I’m too tired.” She gave him a wan smile, “Can we make it tomorrow, my love?”

“Yeah, sure. You sleep well now.” Kenny closed the door, leaving her alone and confused. Her groin was still enveloped in heat. Her skin was electric shards of excitement, powering their way down through her legs, up again through her body, leaving her fingers tingling. She looked at her hands in disbelief.

“I wanted to ….! I really wanted to touch …..!” She took a steadying breath and, honest with herself as ever, admitted into the darkness. “I wanted to be the one to touch her breasts. I wanted it to be me, pressed up against her, feeling her body with mine. For God’s sake, I wanted it to be me who was kissing her! What the hell is that supposed to mean?” She didn’t know. She couldn’t think. She didn’t want to put any words, or names to it just then. She could only feel – a need, an emptiness – ‘but for what?’

Chapter 13

Kathryn was finding it hard to keep the mantle of her chosen persona wrapped around her, here in Zimbabwe. How could she possibly wear the business suits, her armour, here in this relaxed atmosphere. Even to keep her hair up had become an unwanted chore; and her make-up had been sorely neglected. When she’d been here before, she’d been able to be herself but now, with her clients in such close proximity, she knew she should still be wearing her robe of sophistication; but it was getting harder for her because, as each day passed, it was feeling more like a veneer. Kathryn knew she was basically on holiday, so had a good excuse to relax; but she was feeling that ‘Kathryn the Executive' was disappearing little by little and she was scared that she wouldn’t be able to drag the adopted image back again, once she’d lost it.


Aside from keeping an eye on her charges and occasionally showing them the sights, Kathryn was spending a couple of hours of each day writing notes for the upcoming book. Her memory of past cases was very good and apart from exact dates and names, which in this case weren’t wanted anyway, her recall was absolute. She was recounting their transformations in a humorous, anecdotal way and the actual clients were unrecognisable. She had made numerous notes on her present assignment and these would continue to grow. Her intention was to intersperse the changing of the ‘Stormclouds’ image with many others. She did want to have them as an underlying theme throughout the book, however.


She was happy with the way things were going both with the book and with ‘Stormclouds’. Their adaptation to the new roles had been smoother than she’d anticipated. The only doubt that persisted pertained to Storm. Though she’d been much more subdued since she’d been in Zimbabwe, there was the risk that, back in Perth with old friends, she may revert back to her old way of life. It was getting more and more difficult; but Kathryn could still recall metal images of Storm in the arms of various men and her old stage performances. The promiscuity of her private life could become too tempting for her to be able to resist. Kathryn had noted that Storm and Kenny had seemed to have broken their romantic connection and, though there’d been no hint of anyone here in Harare interesting Storm, Kathryn was under no illusions that Storm had in any way reformed her old ways.


The last couple of days had been very trying for Kathryn. Wherever she went Storm seemed to be there. Her nerves were frayed as she fought to submerge her growing attraction for the Storm she was seeing at present. On frequent occasions, Storm had touched her: sometimes her arm, sometimes a hand. One time, she had brushed some crumbs from the corner of Kathryn’s mouth and it was all she could do, to refrain from clutching the hand, holding it against her lips. Storm’s obvious intelligence had started to peep through her flippant way of speaking and they’d had a few interesting and intriguing conversations, including the one earlier in the day, on homosexuality: whether one was born with the proclivity or whether circumstances dictated it. Storm had appeared very open to opinions, very interested to hear what the others had to say. The whole band had been there, as well as David: and she’d had to be very circumspect with her comments.


Kathryn was apprehensive about sharing Storm’s room starting from that night. David had asked her, earlier in the week and she had tried to think of alternatives but David had pre-empted her by asking Storm first. Apparently Storm had been quite agreeable about it.

“And while you’re there,” David had suggested, “can you try to get her to be a little more safety conscious. Like locking the door; and not carrying that bloody shoulder bag with her when she goes around the town!”

“Don’t I know it!” Kathryn had sighed. “I’ve warned her about it. I can’t do anything else, can I?”


Saturday had arrived all too quickly and she now had to adjust to living in a much more intimate way with Storm for the next week. ‘I’ll just have to organise some sort of routine so that we’re not in the room together too much.’ was her good intention. However, she was not in the sole position to dictate. Storm had other ideas!

***

Storm looked forward to the night with a kind of nervous anticipation. She’d had trouble concentrating all day; and now that she was on stage, for the first time in her memory, she just wanted the performance to be finished. The floor was packed and she’d tried out her new song, which had gone down very well. At the rehearsals that the band held every couple of days, she’d also tried a couple of other songs – slow, sultry ballads that the band had vetoed for their performance. She hadn’t told them that they were for a private performance only – for Kathryn!


She had gone for a walk with Kenny a couple of days previously and had quizzed him about his new man, asking if he was still around. Being assured that he was still very much around, Storm had raised her eyebrows a little, inquisitively.

“Well, tell me all about him then.” Kenny had blushed.

“I’d love to, Storm.” He looked apologetically at his friend. “But this man means a lot to me and I haven’t had the OK from him to tell anyone. Do you mind? I’m sure it will be all right to tell you guys but I need to check with him first.” Storm had accepted it instantly, knowing the importance of trust between both lovers and friends.

“Not that I’ve had any lovers!” She’d murmured as Kenny had turned away, to buy them both ice-cream cones. When he came back, she'd been unusually inquisitive. “You know. I’ve never asked you before. How did you know you were gay? - and when was it? Do you wish you were straight?”

“OK! OK! One question at a time, hey? Firstly; I knew I was gay when I was forever getting a hard-on when I was around the school footy team, especially in the change rooms!”

“But you were on the school footy team!” Storm had objected.

“Why do you think that was?” Kenny had said with a leer, “You didn’t think it was the thrill of kicking a ball around and getting dirty, did you?” Storm had laughed aloud at the picture it conjured: a dirty Kenny chasing a big ruckman, with ne’er a ball in sight!

“Your second question was ‘when did I know?’ if I remember correctly. Well Storm, to tell you the truth, it was at a very early age but I did try to quell it. I even had sex with a girl once ….!”

“What! Who? You never told me! Here I was thinking you were a pedigree ‘poof’ and you’re telling me you batted for your own side once! What’s the world coming to?” By this time they were rolling around on the grass of the park, laughing and wrestling. Kenny had put up his hand for silence.

“Your final question was ……What was it?” Storm had stopped laughing, becoming serious.

“Kenny, do you ever regret your lifestyle? Have you ever wished you were ‘straight?” Kenny had matched her seriousness.

“No, Storm. I’ve never regretted my lifestyle. I am what I am. You’ve helped me more than I can ever say; but, even without your help, and hard as it would have been, I would never have wished to be other than the way I am.” Storm had looked at him, her questions answered -- but not answered. She’d seen that it was right for him; but -- what about her, what about all these feelings that had been growing towards Kathryn. ‘Could she be…..?. Would it? Could it? Be right for her?’


She’d squeezed his hand, before changing the subject, saying as casually as she could.

“It looks like Kathryn and David are an item, going by that hot dance last night. What do you …..? What’s the matter? What’re you laughing about?” She’d punched his arm. “Stop laughing, you big fairy! Tell me what’s so funny!” Kenny had wiped the tears from his eyes, still chuckling.

“OK. I’ll tell you. I’m certain he won’t mind. Promise on your honour you won’t say anything!” He’d demanded. Storm had crossed her hands across her chest.
“Cross my heart. What?” Kenny became serious, his eyes holding Storm’s.

“David is my new man, Storm.” Storm had looked perplexed, her head slowly shaking from side to side. Her lips had tightened and she’d stood up, hands on hips.

“And he’s leading Kathryn on! I’ll …” Kenny had broken into more laughter, fuelling Storm’s anger.

“No, no, no, Storm! That’s not the way it is. Kathryn knows. She’s always known. That’s why they get on so well, what with her …..” He’d stopped abruptly, looking like he wished he could draw the words back. She’d prompted.

“What with her ….what?” Kenny had looked uncomfortable and stayed silent. “What with her being gay as well? Is that what you’re trying so hard not to say?” Kenny had looked down. “I’m right aren’t I? If you don’t tell me I’ll go straight to her and ask her!” Aghast at the thought, Kenny had capitulated.

“Christ, Storm, don't do that!' He took a calming breath. "Yes. That is what I meant. Please don’t use it against her. I like her and I don’t like to see you two in conflict all the time.”

“Oh, we’re not in conflict, my boy. We’re certainly not in conflict.” Storm’s thoughts had been miles away, a small smile touching her lips. Kenny had looked at her searchingly but she’d changed the subject, telling him it was time to return to the hotel for rehearsal.


On the walk back, Storm had been thoughtful and, just before joining the others, she’d requested a favour.

“I know you’ve just told me about David but could you ask David not to say anything, specifically to Kathryn, about the two of you. If she was to learn that you were gay, she’d know our affair was all a sham and she’d start wondering.”

“Sure, Storm. I wouldn’t let you down. However, I think that Kathryn would like to know your reputation was completely false.” She’d leaned over and kissed his cheek with affection, without answering.

***

The performance finished finally and Storm helped the men pack away with barely concealed impatience. She hadn’t seen Kathryn for the last half of the show, though David was still there, helping to clear away.

“Where’s Kathryn, do you know?” she asked David, casually. “She moved in to my room today, I was wondering what time she was likely to be in.”

“Oh, she’s already there.” David replied, “She had a bit of a headache so she said she was going up early to try to get a good night’s sleep.” Storm felt the disappointment hollow out her stomach but spoke calmly.

“Now that I know, I’ll be as quiet as I can when I head up there. I could do with an early-ish night myself.” She looked at her watch. “Mind you it’s 12.30 a.m. already, I may toddle off there myself. G’night all. See you tomorrow.” Storm took the lift to the third floor and walked to her room. She inserted her key quietly and slipped into the room, noting that her bedside light had been switched on for her. She looked at the still form on the adjacent bed and she sighed, partly with relief but mostly with disappointment. She still wasn’t ready to open up and be completely honest with Kathryn about her past but she had wanted to explore her own emotions towards her. She showered and got into her bed, in her normal T-shirt and briefs. The night lay before her and the expected sleeplessness eventuated. She was still tossing and turning at three o-clock in the morning; thinking of her actions over the last day and a half.


Wanting Kathryn to notice her and be aware of her in a way she hadn’t been before, Storm had taken every opportunity to innocuously touch her. She felt that the time she’d touched Kathryn’s face, she’d almost got a response. Storm thought about the discussion they’d all had that day about gays. Both Kathryn and David, along with Kenny, had been of the opinion that it was something one was born with. Cloud and Jim had thought it was circumstances that made you ‘turn’. Storm herself hadn’t been sure, listening to everyone else’s arguments, asking questions. She’d never had an inkling before meeting Kathryn, that she could be attracted to a woman but it seemed now an answer to some puzzles: such as, why she wasn’t attracted to men in a sexual way. How she could flirt with them and yet feel a coldness if they tried to take things too far. She remembered some movies where she’d felt a real affinity to the leading lady and had imagined herself playing the leading man’s role. She veered away from those disturbing thoughts. ‘On the other hand,’ she reasoned, ‘maybe I’ve just got a bit of a crush on Kathryn and just haven't found the man that attracts me yet. It's a big world - maybe he's out there somewhere.’ Her tired brain couldn’t reach any conclusions.


She must have dozed off eventually, slipping into a deep, dreamless sleep. She awoke on Sunday morning to find the room empty. Kathryn’s bed had been roughly made and there was no sign of her in the room or the bathroom. ‘Don’t think you’re going to avoid me like this every night!’ she promised the absent Kathryn. She rolled over again and slipped into a deep sleep, a smile on her face.

Chapter 14

Kathryn walked through the park that Sunday morning, feeling tired and sorely in need of sleep. She’d heard Storm come into the room the previous night, shower and then climb into her own bed. She’d lain awake, hearing Storm toss and turn, obviously not able to sleep. Kathryn had willed herself to lie still; to give the impression that she was sleeping peacefully; but her body had been very awake and alive.


She had lunch alone, at a small, cosy café close to the hotel, then had walked the short distance back, seeing David as she entered. He called her over to ask if she could go to the ‘Ramambo Lodge’ sometime, to watch the ‘Boterekwa Dance Troupe’, an African band that had played at the Crown in the past.

“They’re excellent. Definitely the best in town. It’s a pity I couldn’t offer them the permanent gig that the Ramambo Lodge could. They’re looking at going overseas in the near future and I suggested that you may be able to help them get work in Perth, maybe become their Perth agent. I made no promises, obviously; but, if you could go to see them, I’d really appreciate it.”

“Yes, I can certainly have a look at them. What are they? A group like the ‘Shasteens’?”

“Similar but much better. I have the ‘Shasteens’ playing on Friday and Saturday evenings, as you know, in the restaurant. They’re good. They entertain the diners with their drums and chanting but the Boterekwa Dance Troupe are much better, more professional. They incorporate dancing in the act, unfortunately needing more space than we have in the restaurant. I don’t want to tell you too much, you have to see them for yourself. When you go, ask your waiter if Shakehim Mbofana can talk to you after they’ve performed. He’s a charming man, you’ll love him. You haven’t been to the Ramambo Lodge yet, have you?”

“We’ve been meaning to go. After all, it’s only two blocks from here. Storm was saying she’d heard there was an art gallery attached and she was keen to go. Obviously we’d have to go on a night Storm’s not playing here. Are they open on Mondays?” David told her they were and suggested they go the following night.
“I won’t be able to join you, I’m afraid.” He smiled. “I’ve a hot date planned.” She gave him an answering smile.

“And you’re still not going to tell me about him, are you? No, no. Don’t answer. I’m not trying to ferret it out of you. You have a great time, my love.”


She left him then and went up to the room, using that time to catch up on a little sleep, knowing that Storm would be rehearsing.

***

Storm and Kathryn set off to walk to the Ramambo together on Monday night having only had brief glimpses of each other on the previous day and then only with others around. Kathryn had had another early night while the band had performed and Storm hadn’t tried to waken her when she’d arrived back in their room at a late hour.


Kathryn was glad of all the extra police and security guards who filled the streets and doorways because of the week-long African/American conference, as Storm had brought along her bag, yet again! The hotel had been a hive of activity all day with the newcomers and every taxi seemed to have been taken. Kathryn hadn’t objected to walking such a short distance on such a glorious evening. She smiled back to the ever-friendly police who were on duty outside the Ramambo Lodge as they entered.


They had initially booked a table for four, as Cloud and Jim were planning on going but a last minute change of plan had left just the two of them. They’d arrived early so that they could browse through the art gallery before eating. They admired the Zuva tapestries, with their bright, cheerful colours. The original paintings and graphics drew Kathryn, whereas Storm was fascinated by the representational wood carvings and the Shona sculpture. Kathryn purchased a small etching but Storm couldn’t make up her mind between a wood carving of a giraffe or a stone mother and child figure.


Finally, with their purchases put by for collection on the following day, they entered the cosy bar area where they sat at the big, heavy table and ordered an aperitif. The dark, almost black, wood of the beams contrasted well with the bamboo wall coverings. The gleaming black tables and chairs showed up the white of the drink coasters, with flowers giving a splash of colour to every table. Kathryn and Storm relaxed in the friendly atmosphere of helpful waiters, soft music and smiling faces. Storm sipped her drink slowly, unaccustomed to strong alcohol. She felt the Marguerita warm her insides as it slipped down.


They were asked if they were ready to move through to the restaurant and were shown to their table by a charming Maitre d’. The menu was brought and they browsed through it, unsure whether or not to tackle the more exotic dishes. Kathryn chose the game broth as a starter, with Storm braving the ‘Crocodile Tail’ sautéed in butter. For the main course Kathryn’s choice was ‘Guinea Fowl’ braised in sherry sauce and fresh pasta. Storm, not wanting to try the ‘game’ dishes such as zebra, wildebeest, kudu or warthog, decided on the hot and spicy, Chicken Peri Peri.


As they awaited their first course, Kathryn summoned the wine waiter with a barely lifted finger.

“Any preference?” she asked. Storm replied, with a shake of her head, “I don’t drink much wine. You choose.” Kathryn discussed the wine list with the waiter before choosing a light, white wine, explaining to Storm that she’d ordered a late-picked Chardonnay which would be a little sweeter than most and was generally preferred by non wine-drinkers.


Storm’s face was slightly flushed with the effects of the aperitif as the waiter left to fulfil their order. There was an unusual animation in her voice as she challenged Kathryn to yet another 60s question.

“‘Mirror, mirror’. Who sang it?” Kathryn shrugged her shoulders in defeat.

“You got me. I’ve never heard of it. Are you sure you’re not making it up?”

“No way! Mind you, I only know of it because I’ve got it on tape. It’s by ‘Pinkerton’s Assorted Colours’!” Kathryn laughed out loud.

“A name on anybody’s lips!” she said with friendly sarcasm. “OK, if you want to cheat, how about this one. ‘Softly whispering I love you’. Know who sang it?” Storm looked her in the eye and repeated the title, emphasising the words.

“Hmm. No, I don’t think I know that one. Tell me.”

“The band’s called ‘The New Congregation’ I’ll play it for you when we get back to Perth next week, it’s a lovely song.

“Sing it for me now.” Kathryn shook her head, indicating the filled room. “Oh, come on! Nobody will hear; everyone’s talking. Don’t you know the words?” She challenged. Kathryn, not one to resist a challenge, nodded her head.

“Yes, I know the words. OK. On your own head be it -- but ‘Storm McInnes’ I’m not!” She started quietly and Storm leaned across the table to hear better.

‘I can feel your warm face
ever close to my lips
and the scent of you
fills the cool evening air
I can close my eyes
and you’re there
in my arms, dear
and I know your soft kiss”

Storm became aware of Kathryn’s eyes looking at her mouth and her lips parted, to accommodate her quickened breathing.

“is turning into music
every beat of my heart
when I hold you close
to my heart
and I hear your voice
whispering ‘I love you’

Kathryn’s gaze lifted from Storm’s mouth and was captured by her eyes. Her voice trailed off as she saw a fire smouldering behind the thick lashes. She laughed, a tremor making it shake slightly. “Sorry, I can’t remember any more of the lyrics.” She looked away from the magnetism in Storm’s eyes before gratefully turning to the waiter whose fortuitous arrival with their first course eased the tension.


Kathryn tried to keep up a light patter over their meal and she was assisted in this by the starting up of the Boterekwa Dance Troupe’s act. They were all that David had promised; and more! They played traditional Marimba music but in a more upbeat, professional way. The sound and the performance was considerably more marketable than any Kathryn had seen previously in Zimbabwe and she could immediately see that they could become a draw card in many a Perth night-spot. The problem would be in the logistics of transporting their hand-made equipment.


Storm and Kathryn finished off their entree and settled down to watch and enjoy the unusual performance. The troupe combined the beat and rhythm of their Marimba music and singing, with the traditional dances. The Muchongoyo dance of the warriors, the Mhande rain-maker dance and, Storm’s favourite, the Madanhi dance which imitated lion cubs, lizards and leopards. Storm and Kathryn gave the performers their rapt attention and barely noticed when their empty entree dishes were replaced by their main courses. The performers took a break and Storm and Kathryn were able to transfer their attention to the delicious food. Storm was taking frequent sips of her wine to combat the heat of her spicy dish and eventually had to ask for water instead. Kathryn took the opportunity to ask their waiter to invite Shakehim over to their table for a chat, whenever it was convenient.


Kathryn had just finished her guinea fowl when their smiling waiter brought over the four members of the troupe. Shakehim introduced himself and the other members, Maxwell Sixpence; and Isaak and Alec Charika. Kathryn complimented them on a thoroughly professional performance and arranged with Shakehim a time when they could discuss a possible Western Australian tour. Shakehim talked very well and gave Kathryn some photographs and newspaper write-ups about the troupe, for her to peruse.


When the troupe were called for the next part of their show, Kathryn asked once more for the menu.

“Would you like dessert? Storm. Or would you prefer just coffee? The chocolate orange mousse is tempting but I don’t think I could manage it.”

“No, I certainly couldn’t. I’ll just have a plain coffee thanks.” Kathryn finished the last of the wine, aware that she’d had most of the bottle, with Storm only sipping on one glassful. Along with a slight mellow feeling, she was feeling alert and alive, aware of Storm’s every word and movement.


“Tell me about your childhood, Storm. Was it a happy one?” Kathryn was curious but regretted the question when she saw the slightly mutinous look on Storm’s face. The look relaxed a little and Kathryn breathed a sigh of relief as Storm appeared to make a decision and started talking.

“I don’t remember much about my dad, he went back to England when I was six. I can remember he was always singing. Even at that age, I knew he often got the words wrong but, when he couldn’t remember them or didn’t know them, he’d just make up his own. They always seemed much cleverer than the original words.” She noticed Kathryn was smiling and she cocked her head in question.

“That’s just like my dad, he always made up the words. He made me laugh.”

“Me too. When Dad was there, everything was great: but when he left ….” Her voice trailed off. She smiled so as not to give offence. “I’d rather not talk about it, if you don’t mind. What about you? How long since you’ve seen your dad?” Kathryn’s face was wistful.

“Too long.” She murmured. “Here’s a song you definitely won’t know. It was Dad’s favourite. ‘You belong to me.’ I’ve never known who sang it.” Storm was thoughtful, sensing Kathryn’s sadness. She persisted.

“Is he still alive?” She saw the answer in Kathryn’s face and said, hurriedly, “It’s OK if you don’t want to talk about it.” Kathryn surprised herself by answering Storm.

“No, it’s all right, I can tell you about him. Firstly, I’ll give you a brief outline. I lived in the UK. until I was twenty one and had graduated from university. When I was small I always wished I had been born ten years earlier like my sisters so I could go to dances with them. When I was six I could sing just about the whole of the top ten. Music was in my family and though Mum and Dad liked the crooners – Nat king Cole, Bing Crosby, Perry Como and, my dad’s favourite, Tony Bennett, my sisters loved the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Cliff Richard and Elvis so I had a whole range to listen to. I grew up listening to them all, including Dad’s version of ‘She loves you’. When I turned twenty one I wanted excitement and to see a bit of the world so I came to Australia to live with a sister, who’d emigrated years earlier.


I worked, wrote the book and then planned a holiday in England in 1992; It had been eight years since I’d left. My flight was booked for a Saturday, the 17th of March, St. Patrick’s day. On the Thursday before I was due to depart, my sister and her husband arrived, their faces showing that something was wrong. My sister hugged me. I think I guessed, even before she spoke.

“Katy, you have to be brave.” She said and I knew, immediately. She told me that our dad had had a massive heart attack while speaking at a board meeting. Dad, always the protector of the less influential, had been speaking on behalf of the cleaners, who were getting a raw deal, when it happened. There had been two doctors on the committee but they couldn’t revive him.” Kathryn was unheeding of the tears which glistened in her eyes, unknowing that Storm’s hand lay on top of her own. She continued. “It was my other sister’s birthday and she and Mum had gone out for a quiet meal. The police were waiting at the house next door when they returned and they were told.” She brushed at her face as a tear tickled her cheek. “I got there in time for the funeral.” She finished simply, her eyes unseeing, lost in the sorrow of an eight year old pain.


Storm could feel her anguish and wanted to sympathise but could think of nothing to say. She longed to touch that austere face, to reach some answering chord. A melody came into her head and she started to hum. Kathryn slowly returned to the present and her head tipped to one side, listening. Words that Storm hadn’t been aware that she even knew, came into her head and they joined with the tune.


‘See the pyramids across the Nile
see the sunlight on a tropic isle
just remember, darling, all the while
You belong to me


I am so alone
without you
maybe you are lonesome too
and blue


See the market place in old Algiers
send me photographs and souvenirs’


Kathryn joined in - softly - barely making a sound.


‘Just remember when a dream appears
you belong to me.


They both stopped singing. Their hands were clasped tightly across the table. Storm released one of Kathryn’s hands and reached up to stroke one finger across her cheek.

“Poor kd. My heart breaks for you.” Her voice came in a murmur, from deep in her throat. The words broke the spell and Kathryn gently extricated her hands, shrugging mute apology, a wistful smile on her face.

“Enough of my past. Let’s just get the bill, hey? I’m ready for my bed.”

Chapter 15

The Maitre d’ insisted that a waiter escort them the two blocks back to their hotel, though the police were still numerous on the short walk back to the hotel. They took the lift up to the third floor in silence, both remembering their closeness during the evening. Kathryn remembered it with a kind of regret, a feeling of having lost something she’d never had. Storm remembered, with intense excitement, that softer, more human, side of Kathryn that she had just seen, arousing her feelings to a higher level.


Kathryn offered Storm the first use of the bathroom and, while Storm was showering, Kathryn tried to take hold of her emotions. She attempted once more to drag the old, damning pictures of Storm to mind; but couldn’t. All she could see were the sympathetic eyes that had watched her that evening, the feel of fingers, gently stroking her face. All she could visualise was a picture of a beautiful young woman, shining blonde hair framing the face of a caring person.


Storm emerged from the bathroom, freshly glowing, in T-shirt and briefs. Kathryn averted her eyes from the soft, round breasts with their hard nipples visible through the thin material. She collected her night-wear and turned to go to the bathroom.

“Can you hang on a second?” Storm asked. “There’s a song I’d like to sing for you. The guys don’t think it should go in the act but I like it. I may be asleep when you finish your shower. Can I sing it now? Please?” Storm's voice was innocent but heart was pounding. Kathryn dropped her clothes onto the bed, sitting next to them.

“Of course you can, Storm.” Walking over to the CD player, Storm selected one song, talking as she did so.

“It’s called ‘I won’t leave you lonely’ from the Shania Twain CD. The opening bars of the song started, the volume turned down low. Storm’s low, husky voice joined with, then over-rode the original artist’s voice. They started off in chorus.

‘Together – midnight in summer
the air’s so much warmer
falling in love under starlight
holding on so tight – together.


I won’t leave you lonely - tonight
I want you to hold me - tonight’


Storm's voice had left Shania in the background. She danced, her head thrown back, lost in the emotion of the song.


‘It’s gonna be - all right
I won’t leave you lonely - tonight.


Imagine - the air filled with jasmine
the breeze blows with passion
You and me dance with desire
the moon is on fire – imagine’


Storm leaned over Kathryn: her dance, one of desire. Her arms were outstretched, stroking the air in front of Kathryn’s body.


‘I won’t leave you lonely – tonight
I want you to hold me – all night.’


Storm’s eyes were pleading, her arms mimed the words.


‘It’s gonna be – all right
I won’t leave you lonely – tonight


Je t’aime beaucoup ma amour
you are the one I adore’


Kathryn tried to remind herself that Storm was a performer and this was a performance. She forced her own hands to stay still, to not reach for the hands that seemed to strain for her alone.


‘I won’t leave you lonely – tonight
I want you to hold me – all night
it’s gonna be – all right
No, you won’t be lonely – tonight.’


Storm’s hands became a feather touch on Kathryn’s arms, her shoulders, her face. Kathryn’s heart was racing, her body on fire. ‘She doesn’t know what she’s doing!’ She tried to tell herself. ‘She just doesn’t know!’ She closed her eyes in desperation, praying that she wouldn’t react and embarrass them both. The song was coming to an end. ‘Just one verse more.’ she reassured herself.


‘Na - na - na……
Te amo mucho mi amor
you are the one I adore
Te amo’


“Wonderful!” Kathryn’s voice was cracked. She cleared her throat, “Just wonderful. Let me have a think about it, then maybe I’ll talk to the boys.”


Storm was disappointed. She’d hoped to provoke a reaction with the song. She’d recognised the effect it had had on Kathryn but the older woman's self-control had won out in the end. Storm still wasn’t prepared to give up however. She watched as Kathryn picked up her night clothes again, going into the bathroom and Storm went to the CD player, pondering her choice of music.


Kathryn stood under the shower, trying to cool her skin, drown her desire. She decided to take her time, her only defence was in Storm being asleep when she emerged from the bathroom. She could still hear the music from their bedroom but hoped that Storm had fallen asleep, listening to it.

***

Kathryn quietly opened the door back into the bedroom, to find the lights dimmed. She looked across at the two empty beds before sweeping the room to locate Storm. She saw her standing by the CD player, the light from the little table lamp illuminating the controls. As Kathryn watched on, Storm pressed the ‘program’ button and as the selected music filled the air, Storm approached Kathryn – her arms outstretched in invitation.

“I’m feeling wide awake. Dance with me, Kathryn.” Kathryn recognised another track from the Shania Twain ‘Come on over’ CD. She tried to laugh away the suggestion.

“You’re joking!” she pointed down to the pyjamas she was wearing. “Like this?”

“Sure, why not? Come on. I can’t dance by myself and this track always makes me want to dance. Kathryn heard the fast beat of ‘Rock this Country’ and thought ‘Why not? There’s no harm in this sort of dancing.’ She moved to the small area of space to which Storm had back-tracked, toes tapping. Storm leaned over and turned the volume up slightly and they started dancing, swaying to the fast beat. Kathryn was enjoying watching Storm dance, it seemed a long time since she’d danced with a woman in any way. The song finished all too soon for Kathryn, who slowed her movement as the last notes disappeared and went to turn away. Storm clasped her wrist, leaning slightly backwards to look up into Kathryn’s face.

“Another one.”


The next track from the CD was the more haunting tune of ‘If you want to touch her, ask!’ The initial beat of the drums was slower and Storm pulled Kathryn in closer, swaying and circling her hips in the manner she’d seen Kathryn and David dancing. Kathryn frowned slightly with surprise as Storm put a hand lightly on her hip, feeling the warmth of it through the material of the pyjamas.

“I know you can. I saw you with David the other night, just before we left the ‘Safari’. It was a terrific performance. Dance with me the same way.” Kathryn found her hips were already moving in time to the beat.


‘First you gotta learn to listen
To understand her deepest thoughts
She needs to know you can be friends
Before she’ll give you all she’s got’


Kathryn felt all the emotions from the evening returning and her eyes closed as she felt Storm up close, their bodies moving in unison.


‘If you wanna get to know her
Really get inside her mind
If you want to move in closer
Take it slow, yeah, take your time’


Kathryn applied pressure on Storm’s back, pulling her closer, taking it slow, taking her time. Storm’s hands were on her shoulders, the fingers stroking, burning, into the back of her neck. Kathryn for once didn’t resist her own impulses and allowed her hands to drop down to Storm’s buttocks, pressing her even closer, widening her stance so that Storm could fit between her hips.


You must start from the heart and then…
If you wanna touch her
Really wanna touch her
If you wanna touch her, ask!’


Kathryn’s head rested on Storm’s shoulder with Storm’s lips pressed to the top of it. Storm’s hand moved across her shoulder and two fingers went under her chin, gently lifting Kathryn’s head as her lips left a trail of fire down the forehead, over one eye, a softer pressure on a cheek and then Kathryn felt the padded softness of Storm’s lips on her own.


A little physical attraction
Romantic old-fashioned charm
and a lot of love and tenderness
Is gonna get you into her arms.’


They stopped swaying, all thoughts of the dance lost to them. They were unaware when the next song started: ‘Lobo’ was just a sound in the background.


‘You told yourself years ago
You’d never let your feelings show’


They were each fully embraced in warmth and softness. Hands moved, explored each other’s faces, shoulders, arms. It was the first kiss that Storm had ever shared, the first that she’d ever contributed to. She savoured the taste, the feel, of Kathryn’s lips. She felt them part beneath the pressure of her own. She felt Kathryn’s tongue caress her lips and she touched it with the tip of her own, the profound intimacy piercing her, leaving her legs weak.


‘Baby, I’d love you to want me
the way that I want you
the way that it should be
oh baby, you love me to want you
the way that I want you
the way that it could be’


Kathryn felt Storm sag a little against her and, her mind in a turmoil, she guided Storm over to sit on the edge of her bed. She tried to move backwards, away from her but Storm wouldn’t let go of her arms.

“No, please! Don’t go!”

“I have to, Storm. You don’t know …”

“I do!” Storm interrupted, moving backwards on the bed; pulling Kathryn with surprising strength. “Love me, Kathryn. Please!” Storm fought down the feeling of vulnerability as she asked for Kathryn’s love. Kathryn responded to the strained plea in Storm’s voice, pulling her close, pressing her lips to Storm’s throat.


‘It took time for me to know
what you tried hard not to show’


Storm stroked down Kathryn’s back; feeling an urgency to make up for all the times she hadn’t been able to touch her; for the empty years she’d lived without her. She tugged at the pyjama top, trying to lift it up, needing to touch Kathryn’s skin. Kathryn lifted slightly, enough for Storm to reach and fumble impatiently with the buttons down the front. Finally open, Storm slipped the top off Kathryn’s shoulders, kissing them as they were bared to her. Seeing Storm’s urgency, Kathryn responded by rolling Storm on top of herself and expertly removing her T-shirt. Gazing with desire at the released breasts spreading softness over her, she filled her hands with their heaviness. She looked up at Storm, seeing her head flung back, eyes closed, lips slightly apart.


‘You told yourself years ago
you’d never let your feeling’s show’


The words of the song crystallised inside Kathryn’s mind. She remembered her vow not to get involved, not to let herself get hurt again, especially not with someone like Storm. ‘Oh God, how I want to make love with her though!’ Storm’s head lowered to Kathryn’s mouth, the nectar of her making Kathryn forget what she’d been thinking, what her old resolutions were. The lips released her and she brought her mouth up hungrily to the tan button at the tip of the breast she was holding, drawing it inside. She heard a gasp from Storm as she suckled softly, her teeth gently grazing its hardness.


Storm’s lips found Kathryn’s throat; the tip of her tongue licking at the moisture that had formed in a light coat over Kathryn’s body, sliding lower and lower until she reached the breasts she was craving. Her hand rested lightly on Kathryn’s stomach as she filled her mouth with the creaminess of one breast, then the other.

“I’ve never ….” She groaned, trying to let Kathryn know that she was her first ever lover. Kathryn fought her way up through the mists of desire, trying to form words.

“I don’t know …” she stopped, not sure what she wanted to say.

“You do know. You have to show me, teach me.” Storm demanded. Kathryn stilled, trying to understand Storm’s words. The meaning came with a jolt.

“You mean …? You know about me? About my old life?” She held Storm away from her. Storm, eyes unfocussed, muzzy with passion, didn’t realise the importance of the question.

“Yes. I know you’re gay. I want you to teach me, I want ….” She wasn’t allowed to continue as Kathryn pushed her to one side, sliding out from under her. Standing by the bed, her angry eyes looking down at Storm, whose own eyes looked at her in perplexity.

“You’ve tried everything with the men, so now you want to try something different, hey?” Storm shook her head, getting to her knees.

“No, it wasn’t like ….”

“No! you’re right; it’s not like being with a man! They may like a slut in their beds. I don’t. You found out I was gay and you thought it was a chance too good to miss.” Mortified, feeling stripped of every defence, a shutter went up in front of Storm’s face. Her eyes became glacial, her jutting chin forcing the quivering to a halt. All the hurt of her childhood welled up and only pride stopped her from blurting out the truth of her past. She said nothing.


Kathryn scooped up her top and, turning her back on Storm, slipped it back on with shaking fingers. She walked over and turned off the CD player and the light, finding her way to her own bed through the darkness and the tears that were clouding her eyes. She lay in the darkness, her skin still tingling from the touch of Storm’s fingers. ‘Damn her!’ she thought ‘Damn! Damn! Damn!’ The tears trickled down her cheeks, their saltiness reminding her of the taste of Storm’s breasts. ‘No! I refuse to be hurt again.’ She curled into a ball, pulling the covers over her head.

If you have enjoyed F.J. Davey's "IMAGES, Part Three", then please be certain to e-mail her at  francis7[at]bigpond.net.au  and thank her for posting this Story.

Click here to continue on to "IMAGES, Part Four"

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