There was a period of life when my primary love interest lived over two thousand miles away. We lived apart other than just geographically. He lived alone and answered to no one. He lived only by the rules he himself made. He was an intellect with a highly scientific mind. He loved women and they loved him. He had a passion for all things beautiful. He lived life as though the world was his own personal playground; and, that no one, nor anything, existed unless he willed it to do so. He had many lovers and even more friends.
I, on the other hand had married very young. This is a tradition for Southern daughters, facilitating the myth that "Prince Charming" would provide for all your needs. Children soon followed. The great American phenomena, DIVORCE., catapulted me as solely responsible for the young souls left in my care. My life as a single parent became a lesson in daily survival. The result was an exhaustion level that left little room to just enjoy being alive.
Andrew came into my life like a whirlwind bringing with him a breath of fresh air. He taught me laughter, to escape from routine. Each visit was one of utter indulgence into the pleasures of life. With him I willing explored any introduction to sensual vices. He was such a good teacher!
One evening he called to chat and to tell me about a party he would be attending with a friend that night. It was two years later on the occasion of a visit by me to his turf that he once again mentioned this party.
If you've ever been fly fishing, then you know how it is to throw out the line with a flashy lure attached and then reel it in quickly, then repeating the process until you reel in a fish. This lure definitely had my attention:
"There's a party tonight. I thought we might go if you'd like. I suggest you shop today for something suitable to wear."
He was about to go out the door when I stopped him. "What kind of party?"
"An adult party." he answered, "where should you choose so, any fantasy within your conceivable imagination can be a reality for the evening. I should be home about six."
He winked at me before turning to walk out the door.
Quite frankly, when I found myself sitting alone in his apartment I felt momentary panic. My gut check told me that this would be an evening unlike anything I'd ever experienced before. At the same time, I was eager to bite that lure to satisfy my curiosity. What planned "vice" would be on tonight's entertainment agenda?
I did swallow that lure. So, I did what he told me to do. I went shopping.
As promised he arrived back at precisely six o'clock. On his arm was Simone, his special someone. They both greeted me warmly with big smiles and hugs. I was dressed and ready.
The three of us drove into the hillside that was decorated with beautiful homes. As we approached the lights that illuminated from within these private domains reminded me of flickering candles. It was warm and inviting. Our destination was a home built in an area where economic comfort levels were evident; the home was three stories, plus a basement.
Andrew helped each of us from the car as we ascended the pathway to the front door. We were greeted by a woman in here mid-thirties who had a head full of flaming red curls that cascaded down her back to the middle of her shoulder blades. She was dressed quite conservatively in a pair of beige colored linen slacks and a dark green silk blouse. She seemed so elegant, so normal.
So far, so good, I thought to myself. Secretly wild fantasies had played through mind all day as to what the environment and the participants of the party would be like. This initial introduction was greatly reassuring that it would not be a den of inequity.
After we each paid an attendance fee, which was minimal and intended to cover the expenses, we were ushered into the living room. There a group of about thirty rather handsome adults were engaged in animated conversation. A table was laid out with a variety of California wines, cheese boards, fruit, and nuts. The fireplace emitted a warm glow that lit the faces of those seeking its comfort.
Andrew made his way over to the refreshments and returned with a glass of white wine for each of us. "Establishing one's comfort zones can be easily accomplished. I suggest a tour of the premises." With those simple words he took my hand and led me to a stairway that descended down to the basement.
The entire area was of rich redwood, floors, walls, and ceiling. An enormous hot tub filled the center of the floor. Off to the side was a cubicle that was in reality a sauna. There was only one occupant besides Andrew and I. One lone man! A naked black man! He stepped out of the tub, nodded in greeting, and smiled briefly before reaching for one of the many thick white towels available.
My eyes did not leave his body as my mind's eye recorded every ripple of his muscles. The water glistened against his dark skin. My attention was drawn towards his genitals as I felt myself shyly seeking to peek at them. The contrast of the elongated dark penal shaft to the soft pink color of the tip fascinated me.
My origins dictated a time and place that made it impossible for me to associate with a man of color. I found it ironic that my first introduction would be one of such an exposing nature.
"Satisfied?" Andrew whispered in my ear.
Our next destination was up two flights of stairs. We were directly above the family's living quarters. There were several rooms to investigate on this level.
The first visual was a dormitory style room with row after row of cot style bedding. As we entered the room my eyes were riveted to two sets of feet, one set white and one set black. The couple was engaged in a heated phase of lovemaking. I stood rooted to the floor unable to enter further into the room without feeling like and intruder. Andrew wanted to continue to watch but understood my feelings.
The second room was softly lit and very romantic. All that was there were two sets of double sized bunk beds. They were draped in a sheer flowing cloth that created the illusion of privacy. As yet there were no human inhabitants to disturb the serenity. The night was young.
As we approached the next room I could hear voices. The door was closed. Andrew turned the handle and opened it. "This is the play room," he explained, "one can choose to participate or one may opt to just watch."
