It was a sunny Saturday in early March, around noon- we got up late due to a late evening Both Amy and I were hanging out in jeans, t-shirts and socks- her long soft dark brown hair in a ponytail ... my hair-long since gone. The kitchen of my duplex still smelled of the French toast feast we had just finished, after a heated debate over the proper vanilla/cinnamon ratio. As I start to do the dishes, I notice you are engaged in an intricate sock skating program to the latest Phantogram song, there is a joy that shines from you. I smile as i watch the most beautiful woman in the world. My mind wanders back to last night... curious about how the Avengers movie ended, when did Stan lee make his traditional cameo.. and if Matt and Natalie locked up when they left... when did they leave. Amy and I lasted 30 minutes into the first movie when our hands accidently slid down her inner thigh... and that's the last we saw.
For me, Amy met my magical criteria: namely I would want to take her out every night and pamper her, but also just want to stay at home curled up together watching a movie (and making out). After 18 months, the latter option was still my favorite. Just being together made my heart pound.
You see I am extremely shy and introverted... often getting lost in my thoughts (now usually of her). I can't handle crowds, like clubs, for more than about 20 minutes. I never ever want to be the center of attention, or stand out. The reasons are long and complicated... simple answer it has to do with the late identification of some learning issues.... I recovered well in fact graduating from grad school when the experts were surprised I completed undergrad.
Amy told me she understood and was the similarly inclined to quiet nights. In the beginning this was a source of tension because I was sure she wasn't being honest, just making me feel okay. Fortunately we found some clubs that were laid back, and friends we go out with who accepted the quiet shy guy the brown haired Angel dragged along. Also, every so often she would go out on her own and cut loose; she would always stop by tell me about it, and I would see a little sparkle. A few times I offered to step aside.... with one condition: we had to whatever to stay friends.
Don't get me wrong we did things to keep the fire going. While we both had fun reading ludicrously wild fantasies about alt lifestyles, but when we talked neither of us had any interest in trying anything. We weren't boring mind you, and there was fire between us which is why we got such a late start.
"What are you doing today?" You ask.
"I need to do some cleaning around the house. I am starting a new project on Monday, and you know that's kinda my ritual. Want to hang around and help?" I ask. I work from home, as a project consultant with a local university- it's a modest endeavor but I really enjoy it. The sad part is that I no longer get to flirt, err I mean collaborate, with this one girl on campus, but at least she stops by occasionally to train me on the enjoyment of whip up a good meal to share (Oh you have such a dirty mind).
"Hmmmm, let me think..." there is a long pause. You look pensive.
"Hey, you already have done the floor using my favorite wool socks!" I point out, you look at me with a frown. A few more seconds of silence.
"You know, I think I would rather get my head shaven. It's the first nice day in months, and I have some errands to run. Plus, if I don't do laundry I won't have any clothes for tonight, or work." You declare.
"Want me to go with..." We've been together for about 18 months, yet still you could make me excited about watching paint dry or grocery shopping. I walk you outside to your car.
"I do, but I know you need to get ready for Monday. BTW Please turn in your timesheets ON TIME!!! I swear I want to really beat you sometimes."
"Yes Ma'am!!" I Stand erect and salute.
Amy is the contract analyst who supports my group. Professionally we love her because she lets us get away with murder. Personally, I love her because she ... well she is Amy. I feel and electricity every time, and I do mean every time, I see her.
" I wish you meant that. I should move in.... make you my slave. Just so I could steal your paperwork and get it processed on time." You say jokingly.
"Well You could..." I start to reply, but she cuts me off
"You know I like my place, and not that kind of girl." You move over to me and we embrace. Our arms around each other's neck and foreheads touching.
From the distance a duet of voices yell "WILL YOU TWO GET A ROOM... PLEAASE!!" My neighbor Max and his wife Natalie wave.
"I'll come along if you want, I can clean tomorrow." Our lips meet and we kiss deeply and passionately.
"That's sweet. I know would and thank you, but it's okay." Reluctantly we separate. I head towards the door while you start your car. "Hey what are we doing tonight? "
"How about dinner and a movie? Everyone is in Tahoe this weekend. I think Fast and Furious 900 is out." You give me quizzical look. "It's in the theatre.... Geez!!!" I respond.
As I get to my door You yell out "You know I heard about a couple new hangouts that opened Downtown. How about dinner and then check out one of the new clubs?".
"Hmmm" as I said I am hesitant because clubs, with their loud music and crowds are extremely uncomfortable.
"Please?!!! It will be fun. We can have an awesome steak dinner a nice romantic stroll along the waterfront. Then some music and dancing... some might call it romantic"
"Sounds like a perfect Saturday" I respond.
"You're lying your ass off!! "You call out. "Thank You. I'll call you later when I'm done."
I smile broadly, and walk full speed into the door (apparently, it is less painful when you open the door.)
"OHH Babe! You okay?" I nod.
"I can't tell you how much I appreciate you doing this." You say proudly.
I give you a big smile.
You drive off.