Warmth of a Mid Autumn Night

Warmth of a Mid Autumn Night

Chapter 1
Preparing for the Evening

It is another brisk morning walk around the manor.  All the leaves have fallen from every tree covering the ground in the colors of Autumn with gold, red and orange with thin, brown veins that showed life in every leaf cut off.  The crackling sound is heard clearly from stepping on small piles of the colored, thin layers every where I walk.  It reminds me of the flakey, buttery pastries that I had last week for dinner.  But tonight it will be about softness and the right amount of sweetness to fill the cool, hollow air.

Tonight will be a special night for I have a beautiful guest to accompany me.  I could not wait, but I need to prepare my courses hours in advance.  As I walk to the green house looking for the herbs that will be used for a variety of dishes, my butler came to me asking when he should pick up Miss Highbrighton.

"I do not want her out too late.  Pick her up at about half past six, Humbly."

"Yes, Sir.  I will inform her maid of the matter.  Is there anything you would like me to prepare for tonight's meal, Sir?"

"Yes, Humbly.  I need you to make some dough to give it time to rise.  Maybe a basic foccacia, baguette or buttermilk rolls.  If you could make a pie crust, then that will be fabulous."

"Yes, Sir.  I will make them right away, Sir.  If you need me, I will be in the kitchen and storage area."

Off he went without any hesitation as usual.  He had been living on the estate for the past 30 years and usually quite predictable.  I know that he fancies the maid of Miss Highbrighton, but he prefers to melt her heart at a distance.  They had both been bitten once by the love bug and they are not too quick to jump into any serious relationship after that. 

The mint is a lovely, deep green.  Some a little lighter in shade, but none the less as refreshing to the nose as the parsley.  They will add a nice accent to every dish that I make for this evening.  I want to make a six course meal for my lovely Gracie who lives a few streets away from me in this small town of Avon-Levingtonshire.

We had been introduced by a friend and the time spent with her for the past 22 months have been wonderful.  There was something about her that first time we have met.  Maybe it was the twinkle in her eyes that compliments her soft smile that I find most enchanting.  It is difficult to take my eyes off of those bright, brown beauties.  I can gaze into them all night basking in her warmth. 

She may not be the beauty queen of the world to many, but she sure is one to this old-fashioned soul.  The world does not know what she is like inside as I do and it is her beauty inside that has won my heart.  All that is seen outside is only temporary.  Nature and gravity can be unkind to the body after a while, but what is inside is timeless.  It feels as if the world has stopped when we are together.  How time has passed and yet it still feels as if everything happened yesterday.

I gave the crisp land one last look before heading to the kitchen.  Everything always look more charming when cupid has struck one's heart.  My only hope is this feeling never ends.

As Humbly was kneeding the dough on the grey and white counter made of thick marble, I was preparing the beef bourguignon.  The vegetables and beef had already been cleaned and cut the night before.  The cubes of beef were sizzling in the pot with the sliced onion.  The garlic will not be added till the end to keep it from burning.  The aroma of the seared beef filled the kitchen and I knew that Humbly was looking forward to his dinner tonight.

On occasion, I help Humbly out with the cooking.  Unless there is a dish that is too complicated for me to make, I usually make them on the nights that Gracie joins me for dinner.  If a way to a man's heart is through his stomach then that too can be for a woman.  Even if the food is not made perfectly, I know that Gracie appreciates the time I spend making the meal for her.  The food is made with love and that always make any food taste better.

After browning the beef and onions, I had them set aside in a dish and poured two bottles of Beaujolais into the pot to let it come to a boil.  My eyes were hypnotized by the rhythmic kneeding and my mind wandered off thinking of how nice it would be if it her kneeding the dough.  I would be right behind her kneeding slowly and whispering in her ear, "If this is how food of love is made then I will always look forward to making every meal with you."

I could smell the floral sweetness of her skin already.  Her lovely smile always has my heart racing and makes me want to smile too.  It would be wonderful to do anything with her.  Although we have walked around the garden, sat in front of a fire to talk, dined together numerous times, we have never made anything in the kitchen together.  It would almost seem too forward to ask her to do that.  I do not want her to think that is where I see her fit for me. 

Someone who has the key to my heart should be fitting every where.  The picture is complete as long as that special one is along side hand in hand.  I can imagine my world with her at every place.  It would not be the same without her in all the great moments of my life.  I want to be there by her side for years to come.  Even though I think about this, I had never uttered those words to her.  I do not want to put any pressure on her to think the same way, but it would be flattering to know if she shares the same thoughts that I have running through my mind constantly.

"Sir.  Sir.  Sir, the wine is boiling."

I was too deep in thought to hear Humbly until the last word.  Indeed the wine is boiling.  Now is the time to put in the vegetables, beef and the rest of the spices.  It will slowly simmer for a few hours and be tender and delicious by dinner time. 

"You are drooling over this rich and hearty dish, Humbly?"

"Yes, indeed I am, Sir.  Nothing finer than a beef stew on a cold day with fresh, thick bread to soak up all the flavor of the spices and fresh ingredients."

"Do not worry, Humbly.  There is plenty of stew for everyone.  It will be as comforting as the four cheese soufflé.  Did you bring the Parmigiano-Reggiano from storage, Humbly?"

"I was planning to get that after I make the dough, Sir.  If you like, I can go look for that now."

"No no.  It can wait.  I want to make the batter well in advance before the stew is ready.  Shall I make the Chardonnay Gruyère sauce to compliment the soufflé or mix the Gruyère into the batter with the Fontina and Havarti?"

"If you were to leave the sauce out then you would sprinkle the delectable, nutty, sharp Parmigiano-Reggiano over the soufflé.  But if you mix that into the batter then you can pour the cheese sauce over and into the soufflé.  They are both tempting, Sir.  One is a more subtle approach and the other adds a little bit of intense sensation to the taste buds from the beginning before letting the soufflé melt smoothly together.  Why not make the cheese sauce and top the soufflé with thin, small, shaved slices of the nutty cheese?"

"Splendid idea, Humbly.  Your taste buds will be dancing tonight."

"Indeed it will be, Sir.  Will you be making a fruit pie, Sir?"

"Yes.  I need you to cut up a variety of apples and pears.  If we have any almonds, I would like slivers of them please.  It will be an orchard surprise pie."

"What is the surprise, Sir?"

"The cardamom cream sauce made with vanilla bean and a hint of aged brandy."

"That sounds more fitting to be an after dinner drink, Sir."

"Yes, it would be if the amount of cream and brandy switched places.  Do I detect someone to experiment with that idea?"

"I might entertain that indulgent idea, Sir."

Before we knew it, the hours had passed by quickly.  Humbly made a salad and toasted sandwich for lunch.  It was an hour to sit down and smell the kitchen with all the wonderful spices in the air.  Every minute was worth savoring.  The nostalgic feel is as comforting as the melted Provolone and artisan salami in my mouth.  Mr. Rotolini makes a variety of cured meats and sells them in his deli shop.

After lunch, I had a nap before making the rest of the courses.  I was contemplating on the type of salad, dressing and the availability of ingredients to make some side dishes.  Something refreshing and light to balance the heartiness of the stew and soufflé.
Time was ticking away faster towards the later part of the day.  Humbly had to get ready to pick up Miss Highbrighton while I was putting the finishing touches on the vegetable medley that will be roasting in the oven.  I too need to freshen up to look my best for tonight.

Chapter 2
First Half of the Meal

Minutes after putting on my dinner jacket, Humbly came to inform me that Miss Highbrighton was in the guest room.  I quickly made my way through the corridor passing by the large, impressionist paintings on the walls.  It had been there for decades and I had never bothered to replace them with something more suitable for my taste.

"Gracie!  How nice it is to see you again."

She gave a light smile and said, "It is always nice to see you, Leonard."

I do not know if it was her heart that dropped or mine.  She could not take her eyes off of me and I would not care what happens beyond the spot she was standing at.  Her sparkling, brown eyes has me in a trance every time.  The double layer, gold necklace with a princess cut, Swiss blue topaz in the center draped upon her smooth chest beautifully.  It complimented her simple, midnight blue, evening dress with a white, satin shawl.  She wore a matching pair of round, topaz earrings that accented her ear lobes perfectly.

"You are breath taking as usual, Gracie."

Her face began to blush and said, "You think I am breath taking even in this simple outfit?"

"Yes, I do.  Nothing too fancy.  The right amount to accent your natural beauty."

"You always know how to make me feel special, Leo."

"I always will, my sweet Gracie.  Please join me in the dining room.  I hope you enjoy the six course meal that I have made tonight."

As we were walking side by side, my hand wanted to hold her hand, but I held back.  My palms were sweating with excitement and I could only think of dessert.  I do not mean the one that is in the oven baking to a golden brown.

"Oh Leo, you did not have to go through all that trouble for me."

"No no.  It was my pleasure.  I want you to have a wonderful meal.  Could I interest you in some sherry, Merlot, Chardonnay or a martini?"

"Some sherry would be nice.  I always have a wonderful meal when ever I am with you.  A simple cheese plate with some crackers, fruit and some wine in front of a fireplace would be as lovely as fish and chips as long as you are with me."

"Please have a seat.  Let me take your shawl.  Here is your sherry."

As I sit across from this beauty in front of me sipping sherry, I was tempted to hold her hand across the table.  But that was not the only thing I had in mind.  How sweet it would be if I can kiss those full, rosy, soft lips for a moment. 

Half way through our glass of sherry, Humbly brought out an assortment of olives marinated in a lemon peel herb olive oil and a basket of fresh, toasted focaccia.  After letting the two inch thick bread sit for a bit, he slices them in half and then toast the top.  The result is a thin layer of crispiness on top and a soft, chewy texture underneath that is perfect for dipping into the stew.

"The first course will be out shortly, Sir."

"Thank you, Humbly.  Will you please open a bottle of the 1896 Bordeaux to let it breathe a bit?"

"Most certainly, Sir.  Any particular one you had in mind, Sir?"

"No.  Surprise me."
"Very well, Sir."

She looked at me with a sly smile and asked, "What are we having tonight, Chef Leo?"

"We are having beef bourguignon as the main course and a lovely dessert to finish it off at the end.  I hope you will like it."

"I am sure that I will.  Stew is fitting for a night such as this.  You are sweet to cook for me, Leo."

"I want you to enjoy the finer things in life, my sweet sweet Gracie."

She was reaching for the bread basket and I was ready to touch her silky hand, but then Humbly came out with a cart.

"The first course is a beggar's purse filled with spinach, Camembert and spices on a bed of caramelized onion."

He set the dish down for her first and then me.  Then he set the bottle of Bourdeaux and two wine glasses at the end of the bread basket before going back to the kitchen.

"This looks lovely, Leo.  It is a work of art.  The Chive bow wrapped around the purse and Parsley confetti sprinkled all over the dish looks vibrant.  "

"Enjoy the edible art.  Go ahead, tell me what you think."

"Mmm...  Oooohh...  This is delightful.  I love the light, crispy texture on the outside and the smoothness of the cheese and spinach.  The sweetness of the onions blends well with the subtle spices.  I would not be able to stop myself if there was a whole tray of these warm delights."

"I am glad you like this dish, but I would not want you to fill up on these since there are more courses to come.  You think these will be good for a dinner party?"

"Yes.  It would be a crowd pleaser."

"I will consider that the next time I hold a party.  Wait till you try the...  Well I will leave it a surprise."

"You are full of surprises, Leo.  I like every one of your surprises."

"Thank you.  I am glad you like them."

About a minute after we had finished our first course, Humbly came out with a cart to pick up our plates and served our second course. 

"The second course is a field of mixed greens with an olive and caper vinaigrette."

He held out the pepper mill and asked if she would like any black pepper on her salad and mine.  After grinding the peppercorn over our salads, he then poured the Bordeaux into the wine glasses before going back to the kitchen again.

I was having trouble keeping my mind off of her soft hands and lips.  Each course was more and more difficult to get through.  As much as I want to reach across the table and hold her face to kiss those precious lips, I had to refrain myself and be a gentleman.  My mind was whimpering for some affection similar to a puppy with a sad look in its eyes longing to be held and get a tummy rub.  I wonder what she is thinking of me at this moment.

"The salad is refreshing, Leo.  I love the dressing.  It is simple, but unique in taste."

"I am glad that you like it.  Are you ready for the main course before Humbly eats all of it?"

She then covered her mouth with a napkin giggling.  Her cheeks became rosy and her face lit up with joy.

"Is that what he is doing back there the whole time?"

I gave a smile and told her that it is one of his favorite dishes and was drooling all day for it.  If Humbly does not make too much of a dent in the pot, we may have some left over for tomorrow's lunch.  I made enough tonight for all three of us to get our fill of the hearty stew.  But I doubt that we will have seconds unlike Humbly.  It would be hard to imagine him having only one serving of the tender chunks of beef, sweet Pearl onions, rustic cut carrots and the rich flavor of the stew.

Humbly came out with the cart and removed our plates.  Then he had a smile on his face while serving us the bowl of stew. 

"I am sure you will enjoy this as much as I do, Miss Highbrighton.  Mr. Devoncaster made this with much love."

"Do not embarrass me in front of a lady, Humbly.  I only hope she can handle my rustic cooking."

"Give yourself some credit, Leo.  I am sure that I will enjoy this as much as I did the the other courses and previous meals made by you.  This smells wonderful.  Sometimes I think you should turn this manor into a restaurant.  It will be fine dining at its best in this small town."

"Oh no no.  I could not do that.  You are too kind, Gracie.  I only make a few dishes for you to enjoy."

"Mmm...  This is delicious.  Mmm...  Oooohh...  Mmm..."

How I want to stare at her eating, but I did not.  I had my head down looking at the stew as I hear her make sounds of enjoyment with every bite.  Part of me was delighted to hear her enjoy the food and another part of me was thinking she could make the same sounds with my arms around her as we kiss the night away.  It was too much to handle.  I really wanted to tell her to hold back on the sounds, but it was also music to my ears.  How I envy the food being French kissed by her.


Chapter 3   
Second Half of the Meal

Humbly brought out the roasted vegetables in the middle of eating our stew and telling us there is enough for seconds.

"Oh how lovely they look.  It is Autumn on a platter with a nice selection of squash.  Zucchini, pumpkin, yellow squash, red onions, yellow and red bell peppers.  The fresh herbs bring it to life.  I am swept off my feet.  Can it get any better than this?"

"Yes, it can.  I still have a few more delights to keep your feet in the air."

My mind was ready to clear the table, reach over to remove the clip from her hair and let it all hang loose.  I had to keep stuffing my mouth with the vegetables to keep from having a hungry look in which food will do little justice to appease my appetite.

What has come over me tonight? 

Am I that nervous to ask her a question that can change both our lives that I have to think of having my hands all over her soft body?

The question has been in my mind for some time, but I had never had the courage to ask her.  It never felt as if the moment was good enough.  Then there is the fear of rejection.  How awkward it would be if she says the two letter word. 

It did not take long for us to clear the vegetables.  Light, tasty, simple, healthy and colorful all in one.  Makes for a nice palate cleanser to some.  Humbly came out moments after we had finished the dish.

"I present to you the quattro formaggi soufflé."

Humbly set the ramekin down in front of her and cut open to let the smoke come out.  Then he did the same for me before shaving the Parmigiano-Reggiano over the soufflé and drizzled a bit of the cheese sauce over the soufflé.  He did not pour too much so that the sauce would not over power the soufflé.  The sterling silver, gravy boat was set in between us before he went back to the kitchen.

"How lovely this is, Leo.  This is the first time I ever had a four cheese soufflé.  The cheese sauce is divine.  Mmm...  I taste white wine in this.  The texture is light and fluffy."

"Yes, there is some Chardonnay in the sauce.  I am glad that you like it."

"Oh I love it.  This would be a good way to end any meal."

"We are almost to the end of our meal.  Maybe I will make a dark chocolate soufflé next time."

"Tonight's meal has been memorable.  Is there a reason for all this?"

"No reason.  I only want to make every meal with you as memorable as can be.  Good food makes good memories."

I hate to lie to her, but I was too nervous to say anything else.  Part of me wanted to be spontaneous and then there is a part of me that wanted everything to be in the right place and time to ask her the big question.  This was not the night my heart and mind are on the same page. 

Aside from the stew and roasted vegetables, every course was served on a small dish.  It was the right amount for a multi-course meal.  There was still a pie, but that will be eaten in the guest room over a glass of Riesling.

"Are you ready to join me in the guest room?  We can have dessert there."

She then answered yes and got up to walk with me.  I could feel her wanting to hold my arm, but she held back and was glad for that.  If she had touched me, I would not know what would happen between the dining room and guest room.  The thought of kissing her in every inch of this place cease to leave my mind.  How it would speak of our passion too if not for my will to keep my composure in front of a lady.  The walls would show our hand prints every where.

"Would you care for some coffee, tea, wine or liquor?"

"I think a soothing cup of tea would be nice."

"Yes, a cup of tea to relax the nerves does sound good."

I rang the bell for Humbly to make us some tea.  In the mean time, we were sitting in front of the fireplace at opposite ends of the sofa.  I did not want to sit too close and be allured by her sweet scent.  She did not sit that close to me to keep from looking as if she wants more from me. 

Sometimes the moment feels right to hold hands when we walk outside.  Then other times it is best we keep our hands to ourselves.  I think that every time we did hold hands, both of our hearts would be racing and we want to remain calm most of the time. 

"Did you enjoy the meal tonight, Gracie?"

"It was sensational.  I love every bit of it.  You must give me the recipe to the roasted vegetables and that sinful, rich, cheese delight in a ramekin."

"I will have Humbly send the recipes to your maid in the day.  Are you still floating in the air?"

"Yes, I am.  You always know how to make me feel so good, Leo."

My mind was jealous of the delight in a ramekin.  Every adjective made me melt and to know that I make her feel good made me want to show her how good she can feel with me.  I wonder if she could feel the heat inside me from sharing the same sofa. 

About 15 minutes later, Humbly came out with a cart full of treats.  He set the cup of tea on a saucer, a slice of pie with side of the Crème Anglaise for each of us and a tray of assorted cheeses, fresh fruits and nuts. 

"What do we have here?"

"I call this the Orchard Surprise pie.  There is a mix of apples and pears in the pie."

"Yes, I see.  It is delicious.  What is the surprise?"

"The surprise is the Crème Anglaise to compliment the pie.  It is not an ordinary Crème Anglaise.  This has a hint of brandy and Cardamom mixed in."

"Mmm...  This is lovely.  The right balance of spice, sugar and brandy.  If you have the whole pie in front of me now, I would be taking it home with me.  It is absolutely fabulous.  Mmm..."

"How about a glass of Riesling?"

"Yes, please.  This is a wonderful way to end any meal.  Mmm...  If I float any higher, my head will touch the ceiling."

"Hahaha...  The food has swept you off your feet very well it seems.  Care to come back down for a moment to share some cheese?"

"No.  I will have it in the air.  You should join me.  It feels great up here."

"I will consider it.  The stew has kept me down this time."

Truth be told that my heart is in the air with her and it felt fitting to ask her the question since she is feeling light.  I really wanted to pull that box out of my jacket and get down on one knee, but I fear that all this feeling of being on cloud nine would end for some reason.  Sigh. 

I could not help to notice her tongue licking the flakey crust and cream off her succulent lips.  Then my eyes kept looking further down to her neck, chest, hips and legs.  Each time she had popped a grape into her mouth, I was thinking of having my lips around a certain part of her as my hands massage the surrounding areas.

The hour passed by quickly as we share old stories about our childhood.  I almost did not want the night to end.  It always feels great to be with her, but I worry that as the night continued on, I would be close to making a scene hotter than the fire that is several feet away from us.

It was almost 10:30 and I did not want her to be up too late.  I had Humbly wrap the rest of the pie with the Crème Anglaise and have the carriage ready.

"It would be wonderful to have you here all night, but I do not want to keep you from your sleep.  Let me escort you back to your place."

I then got up and walked her towards the front door.  Then I put on wool cape over her shoulders before putting one on mine.  I had reached for my hat and then opened the door to let her out.  Humbly was there standing next to the carriage pulled by two horses waiting for us.  He opened the door and I let Gracie go in first.

"This was a wonderful evening, Leo.  We have to do this again soon.  Maybe next time I will be able to make something delicious for you to eat.  I will be dreaming about that pie in my sleep."

"I am very delighted that you had enjoyed my hodge podge of edible art.  Please take this pie with you.  You can share with the maid unless you want to keep it all to yourself."

"Oh Leo, you did not have to do that."

"No, I insist.  Nothing makes me happier than to see you smile, my sweet Gracie."

"You are so sweet.  I do not want this night to end, but here we are at my place."

"Let me walk you to the door.  Enjoy the pie.  I will see you again soon.  Good night, Gracie.

"Good night, Leo."

She gave a smile and kissed me on the cheek before turning away to hide her blushing face.  The maid was there to open the door and she gave a small wave to Humbly. 

"Time to head back home, Humbly.  It has been a long day for the both of us."

"Yes, Sir."

I was looking out the window to see her bedroom light on from the second floor as we were heading back to the manor.  There was a moment of relief, but also sadness.  It would be wonderful to wake up every morning and see her face.  Maybe one day that will happen when I have the nerve to ask her the question.

Chapter 4 
Orchard Surprise In My Dream

It is time to end another day again.  I lay in my bed wondering if I will have a sweet dream or awful, distorted images to flash through my mind.  It is also possible to have a nightmare, but I should think that I can sleep better after seeing Gracie again.

I keep thinking of how I would want the evening to be with her.  How if I had a second chance without any risk or loss that I would go about our meal together differently.  It would be nice to act the way I feel without any consequences.

[ DREAMING... ]

Is it another day already?

Guess I will have my morning tea.  Hmm...  The tea came quick.  I did not even see Humbly in the room. 

"Humbly!"

"Yes, Sir?"

"Were you in here a moment ago?"

"Yes, I was here to bring your tea."

"But I did not even tell you what type of tea I want and the correct one had shown up from out of no where."

"I think your mind is playing tricks on you, Sir.  Here is your croissant with ham and melted Asiago.  The herbed butter and strawberry jelly is on the side."

"How did you know that I was going to ask for the croissant sandwich?"

"I had a feeling you would ask for that, Sir.  Is there anything else I can get you?"

"No, that will be all for now.  I had no idea that you can grow a mustache that quickly."

What is going on today?

Am I seeing things?

Humbly with a mustache, my tea showing up without asking and he knew that I would want to eat a croissant with ham and cheese.  This is a strange day. 

Now he comes back out with a hat on to inform me that he is on his way to pick up Miss Highbrighton.  I had invited her for dinner tonight.  If I remember correctly, I think the dinner with her was yesterday.  Why is it tonight?

"I will be back shortly, Sir.  You should change and get ready for tonight.  I have taken the liberty to lay out your dinner attire and laid it on your bed, Sir."

"Thank you, Humbly."

Where did my breakfast go?

It was here a minute ago.  Why is he picking Gracie up for dinner when it is only nine in the morning?

Is that clock working properly?

It can not be five in the evening already.  My pocket watch should show the correct time.  My word, it is showing the same time that is on the clock. 

I should go upstairs to change.  He told me that my clothes were laid on the bed.  I do not see anything on my bed except a single pillow.  Where is the comforter?

I can see the carriage coming to the manor from the window.  How on Earth did Humbly pick up Gracie and come back this quickly?

I must hurry up and change.  My closet is empty?!

"Humbly!"

"Yes, Sir?"

"Where are my clothes?  They are not in my closet.  You did not lay out any clothes on the bed."

"Yes, I have laid them out for you, Sir.  You are wearing them now."

This has been an unusual day for me.  Everything is mysteriously showing up and disappearing without my knowledge.  I need a glass of wine to relax.

"Cheers, Leo."

"Uhh, cheers."

All of a sudden I am in the dining room with Gracie drinking wine.  I am unable to focus on anything else now that I see the twinkle in her eyes. 

"Thank you for inviting me to dinner, Leo."

"The pleasure is all mine, Gracie my sweet."

"Do you like my outfit?"

"Uhhh..."

"Speechless?"

Goodness gracious.  I think that my heart skipped a few beats and my jaw would have dropped if it was not for the wine still in my mouth.  This could not be her.  It is evening wear alright, but it is not considered a dinner outfit.  I could not believe my eyes. 

"Are you sure that you have on the right outfit, Gracie?"

"Why yes, silly.  Do you not like my short, satin, white skirt with a matching top?"

"I...  I do.  Your top is sleeveless."

"Yes, it is.  Do you not like that?"

"I like it.  I was thinking you may be cold."

"There is a fire to warm the room.  I am sure you can keep me warm through the night too."

She gave me a seductive look when she said that.  I was close to having her feel the heat, but I had to control myself.  If I was not sure what she wanted from me before, I am sure about it now.  My eyes were hypnotised by her almost naked body.  It feels as if my face had turned red and my whole body heated up.

If this is a dream, I do not want to wake up.  How I long to see more of Gracie in an intimate way.  I do not want her to think that I am only after her body.  It is not easy to hold back the urges and I feel that my self control is being tested almost to an extreme as I feel my heart beat racing.  There is not a word that can do justice to how I am feeling right now. 

She licks the crumbs off of her rosy lips and makes a sound that drives me wild.

"Mmmm...  Mmm..."

As she reaches into the bread basket, I put my hand on top of her soft, warm and smooth hand.  I bring it to my lips and kissed the back of her hand, wrist and the lower half of her arm.

"Oh Leo, you are not interested in having more bread?"

"I will if I can eat it off of your hand.  How about I feed you instead?"

I then reached over for some bread to let her take a bite.  Instead she slowly licked my fingers before taking a bite. 

"Oooohhh...  Gracie, you should not have done that."

"Why not?"

She gave me a seductive smile and brought my hand towards her mouth to lick my fingers again as if to dare me to do something about the matter.  I was ready to have my hands on her face and kiss her, but I did not.  I sat there thinking if I should clear the table and feast on her instead.

It did not take long for her to try another move on me.  She then brought her mischievous toes to tease my inner thighs and my legs.  If she goes where I think she will go then I will have to kiss her after that.

"Oh my.  My toes feel a lot of excitement from a certain spot."

She was asking for it.  I had to get up from my chair and reach over to kiss her passionately.

"Oh Leo, mmmm...  Leo, mmmm..."

I then reached for the wine and spilled some of it on her chest.  She was a little shocked, but then held my head as I clean the mess with my tongue. 

"Oh Leo...  Mmmm..."

She had kept one hand on my head and the other one went further down to feel my excitement.  This was a cue for me to kiss the pair of fruits staring at me.  They look similar to a puppy with sad eyes waiting to be loved and held.  I ran my hands up and down her back and side before massaging those back cheeks.

In the middle of all the kissing, Humbly came by with the cart.

"Dessert is served.  I will be in the kitchen if you need me."

"I had made an Orchard Surprise pie for you, Gracie."

"What is the surprise part?"

"It is the cream sauce with Cardamom and brandy added to it."

"Oooohh...  Mmmm...  That sounds delicious."

"Yes, it is.  I think it will taste better if it is on you."

I then proceeded to drizzle some of the cream sauce on her chest.  She had a big smile knowing what she is in for once my lips are all over her bossom.

"Oh Leo!  Mmm...  Does it taste good?"

"Yes, it does.  You should try some."

Next thing I know, she ripped open my shirt and drizzled a little on my chest. 

"Yes, it is tasty.  Although I would prefer it served on a different area of your body."

She gave me this devilish look and moved down slowly to unzip my pants and let it drop to the floor.

"Ooops.  Did I make your pants fall?  You really do not need to wear any under garments, Leo.  It only gets in the way.  Let me remove your shorts for you.  Ooohhh..."

She then drizzled the cream sauce onto my member and teased me with her tongue in every way that she could to get my full attention.

"Ooohh...  What am I supposed to do with all this attention you are giving me tonight?"

I did not know whether to be on top of her in the dining room or go upstairs to the bed room.  Then I was wondering why am I so exposed and she is still wearing most of her outfit?

"What should I do next, Gracie?"

She ran her hand across my chest and pointed me to the guest room a few yards away to lay on the lounge chair.  Then she removed every article of clothing off.

"Happy birthday to me."

"You like your present unwrapped?"

"Yes, I do.  What can I do with my gift?"

"You lay down and relax.  Let me handle the rest.  Mmm..."

It looks to me that she will be the designated rider the whole night.  All her moaning drove my senses wild.  I long to hear her scream in ecstacy.

"Oh Gracie, I want to kiss you all over."

"No.  Mmm...  Tonight I will be the one to do that.  You will get your chance another time.  You have no idea how long I have been waiting to do this to you.  Mmm...  Leo, you make me feel alive.  Ooooohhhh..."

Before I knew it, the sun was out and the chirping of the birds woke me up.  How I wish that I could continue sleeping, but I need to get up.  I am hungry for a good breakfast with a pastry.


Chapter 5
Humbly's Big Day

There is not any doubt that Gracie makes me feel wonderful inside.  I can see her with me for many years to come.  But as certain as I am about being with her, I fear something that had happened to Humbly about 20 years ago could happen to me.  Something that kept him single all these years.  I do not blame him for not being able to shake off his past experience.

As I gaze out the window from the dining room having my morning tea, I feel the chill of the room.  The fire is usually lit in the other rooms where I spend more of my time at.  Maybe I will have my breakfast in the guest room. 

"Humbly!"

"Yes, Sir?"

"I will have my breakfast in the guest room."

"Very well, Sir.  I will bring it out shortly."

Humbly was a nice, slender looking fellow in his younger years.  He came from a humble background so he did expect much in life.  As long as he had a stable job and decent place to live at then he was a happy man.  He was happy working on my estate.  Over the years he had saved up since he does not have any where to go.  The cost of rent and food are covered living in this manor.  All he needed was someone special in his life to complete the picture. 
Kelsey Flora Remgildbury was the apple of his eyes.  She was fair hair and skin with a lively spirit.  They had met at the local market.  She was the cashier, inventory clerk and stocker who was usually seen every time he went to buy groceries.  They were usually seen at every major event in town.  There is not much that goes on in this small town with a population of about 3,500. 

Words travel fast in a small town.  Almost everyone knew they were a pair.  Many thought they were a good match.  If cupid's arrows were flying around, they had definitely hit those two.  About a quarter of the town were ready to celebrate their big day together.  A big day that left a bigger scar on his heart than he could ever imagine.

Everything was in order the night before.  They both had their parties two days before the wedding.  He had his party with the guys and she had hers with her lady friends.  There was not anything done by them that would have crossed the line.  But something must have made Kelsey take a different turn in life.  Something that nobody in town could ever figure out.

On the day of the wedding, Humbly was at the altar ready and nervous as can be.  He was ready to say those two words that would tie him to a ball and chain.  There was not anything he would say no to when it was about her.  He was ready to give his life to her and take care of her through sickness and in health.  Sadly, she never showed up at the altar.  Humbly was drunk as he could be that night and nearly took his own life a week later.

It would have been nice if she had left him a note or something that would take away all the questions that ran through his mind for years.  He could not think of what went wrong, but at the same time he took a lot of the blame even though he should not.  Out of the blue, she left town and was never seen again.  Even her friends were surprised and were left in the dark. 

Almost every week for a few months, he would be close to taking his life.  His mistake was getting drunk around his butler friends and then be punched in the face by one of them.  This would knock him out cold before he could leap to his death.  It was rough on all of them to see him that way, but they did not abandon him and he was grateful for them after he got over the initial few months of not knowing what to do. 

Years later, I was informed by the maid about those incidents.  Then when the time was right, I would ask him more about his relationship with Kelsey and how he was dealing with the loss.  Much of what he did when he was drunk became a blur in his memory.  His friends had to tell them about what he did and said on those long nights.  He felt quite ashamed of what he did and cut back drinking on a high level for a while. 

I guess that is why I have not asked Gracie the big question yet.  Part of me wants to ask hoping she will say yes.  Even though the chances are likely, I could easily be in the same shoes Humbly was in about 20 years ago.  Everyone was sure that there would be something to celebrate that day, but that did not happen.  What had happened after that was a long, twisted ride for everyone that cares about him. 

The long nights of drinking, the pain and suffering to drive the mind to the edge, the irrational behavior and any chaotic thought would all be a given if Gracie does not say yes or end up disappearing out of the blue.  Unlike Humbly, I would not be drinking around a group.  I could possibly succeed at what he had tried to do week after week. 

The outcomes are limited.  There is not any doubt that I would be drunk more often if the results are negative.  But I could avoid the possibility of those outcomes if I do not ask the question.  It is also possible that if I do not ask then someone else will.  Maybe she is waiting for me to ask.  If she is then it would be wrong of me to keep her waiting so long for me to do my part. 

As I swirl the brandy around the snifter, I think about what Humbly had done during those blurry nights.  Him and his butler friends sitting at the table in the servant's quarter.  All of them sipping on their ale and wine to relax for the evening while Humbly gulps his drink at a high level.

"More wine, Collin?"

"Why yes, Ethan.  Thank you."

"Please pass the ale, Walden."

"Here you go, Alton.  I think someone should keep that away from Humbly."

"Give me my ale!  I want my ale."

"You had enough to drink, Humbly.  How about I make you some tea?"

"Give me my ale, Walden.  I want my ale."

"No more ale for you, Humbly.  You will wake up with a huge headache."

"Do not tell me what to do, Alton.  Give me my ale or else."

"It might do him some good if you sit on him, Collin.  He is a mess."

"Is it too much to ask for more ale?  Is it?! 

As if it is not enough that my Kelsey left me.  Now you want to take something away from me that numbs my pain? 

Where are you Kelsey?!  Where are you my lovely?

KELSEY!  Come back to me!  Come back to me.  I will promise to take care of you.  Please come back."

"Shhhh...  No need to yell, Humbly.  Relax.  Let me make you some tea."

"NO!  I do not want any tea.  I want my Kelsey.  I want her back.  Where are you, Kelsey?"

"Relax, Humbly.  Calm down.  Sit down and have some shortbread cookie."

"Did you take my Kelsey away from me?  Maybe it was you, Collin. 

Could it be you, Alton?  Did you tell her to flee far away from me? 

I am going to look for you, Kelsey.  I will look for you till I find you."

"You are not going any where, Humbly.  Sit down and relax."

"Do not tell me to sit down.  I will go where I please."

"Sit back down, Humbly."

"Do not push me.  I want to find my Kelsey."

"I will push you as I see fit.  You are not going out this door."

"Do not think your height could intimidate me, Collin.  You will not stop me.  I will find my Kelsey!"

"You are not going any where, Humbly."

"Both of you stop it!  This is not the place to be fighting."

"Collin, I think you have hit him a bit too hard."

"Well I either had knocked him out or the ale got the best of him.  Regardless, it is best that he is unconscious for now.  Someone help me get him back to his private room."

I was too young at the time to know what was going on.  My grandfather was not too thrilled back then with how Humbly was handling himself.  He had passed away a decade later leaving Humbly to take care of me.  He had seen me grow up all these years along with Alton.  He too had passed away two years after grandfather leaving Humbly to keep the manor in order on his own.

Mother had always said father was a busy bee.  I do not recall ever seeing the man.  He could not handle being a parent.  By the time I was 12, my mother had left with a French lover.  She left her father and only child behind to persue her dreams in the city of lights, art and of course love. 

It was not easy growing up, but Grandpa Edmund made sure that I was able to focus on the good parts in life and put in the time to be with me everyday.  He was inspirational and lived to a ripe old age of 85.  A painting of him hangs in the library along with the other ancestors. 

Chapter 6 
Aveline Up and Hayden Down

Even though Humbly's past is a possibility that can happen to me, it is not exactly the worse case scenario.  When I think of him, I also think of Aveline, the maid of Gracie's.  It was a nightmare after the honeymoon that she did not see coming.  Quite a tragedy that should not happen to a nice lady such as her.  I remember what Humbly had told me about her past.

"Do you Hayden Jacob Fentonhills take Aveline Chantel Higginsmilton to be your..."

"Yes, I do."

"You may now kiss the bride."

"I will always love you, my sweet Aveline."

They were sweet as can be and always worked everything out together.  She was the maid then as she is now.  He was the new gardener at that time that also helped with other duties on the estate.  As all couples do, they had their little arguements ever now and then.  But it became worse after the death of his friend from his childhood, then his parents, then another friend and then Aunt Ramona.  All of them died several months apart from one another.  It was as if a brick wall fell on him again and again and was not ever able to recover from all the loss.

Aveline tried to comfort him, but it was never enough.  He would drink too much and started to skip his duties.  The staff had to do some of his work to cover for him to keep him from being fired by Mr. Highbrighton, Gracie's uncle.  They knew he did not have any place to go since his two dearest friends and all his family members had passed away.  Nobody wanted to see him fall apart or wind up dead in the middle of no where. 

"Hayden, please put down that bottle and talk to me."

"Why should I?!  I do not want to talk about anything.  Leave me with my Scotch."

"The Scotch is not going to help you solve anything.  Please let me help you, Hayden."

"I do not need your help.  I do not need anyone's help.  More Scotch!!  Give me back my Scotch!  Give it back to me woman!"

"No, I will not.  Ahhhh!!  You dare slap me?"

"I will slap you till you give me back my Scotch.  Give me back my Scotch!"

"No, I will not."

"You dare push me?!"


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