Caribbean Ghosts

Chapter 1 Arriving at the estate

The plane dipped low, revealing a canvas of turquoise water dotted with emerald islands. Taylor, a relieved smile blooming on her face, squeezed Liz's hand. "Welcome to paradise, my love."

Liz, ever the stoic, grinned back. "Took you long enough," she teased, the playful glint in her hazel eyes belying her gruff exterior. Escaping the Soviet Gulag had hardened her, but nine months spent with Taylor had started to chip away at that armor.

The taxi dropped them off at the wrought-iron gates of Aunt Jane's sprawling estate. Bougainvillea rioted in vibrant hues as they walked up the cobblestone path, the humid air heavy with the scent of frangipani.

The grand house, a colonial masterpiece painted a dazzling white, stood proudly at the end of the path. But Taylor's eyes were immediately drawn to the glistening jewel nestled amongst the manicured gardens -- a swimming pool so vast it seemed to melt into the horizon

"Oh my god" Liz breathed her voice echoing the awe in Taylor's heart.

"This is amazing Taylor" Liz sighed, her voice tinged with wonder. "I never thought I'd see anything like this."

Taylor entwined her fingers with Liz's. "This is just the beginning my love. Imagine all the adventures we can have here."

They spent the rest of the evening making plans -- snorkeling in coral reefs teeming with life exploring hidden coves and stargazing beneath the unpolluted night sky. A wave of happiness washed over Taylor a stark contrast to the bitterness of her recent divorce. With Liz by her side, and this breathtaking island as their playground the future felt limitless.

The next morning, sunlight streamed through the sheer curtains rousing Taylor from a peaceful slumber. The sound of clinking glasses and soft laughter drifted from the veranda. Taylor stretched luxuriously a smile already playing on her lips.

This was going to be a summer to remember. With Liz by her side this Caribbean paradise wouldn't just be a luxurious escape it would be a chance to build a future bathed in sunshine and love.

Taylor smiling at Liz 'Well sunshine what do you think should we keep it or sell this place" looking at Liz.

Liz paused mid-sip of her mimosa, a contemplative look settling on her face. While her initial impression of the estate was one of awe now practicality battled with the allure of island living.

"It is... breathtaking" Liz finally admitted her voice thick with her Russian accent. "But such luxury it also demands... upkeep. Staff. Responsibility."

Taylor nodded. She understood the unspoken words -- Liz's life experience had forged practicality into her very core. The idea of becoming entrenched in maintaining a grand estate on a faraway island wasn't the kind of adventure Liz likely envisioned.

"I hadn't really thought about that" Taylor mused, tapping her chin lightly. "Elizabeth was supposed to arrive next week to go over all the details maybe we can get her take on it."

Liz reached over to squeeze Taylor's hand. "Your Elizabeth...she is wise woman da? We trust her with management before... maybe we trust her with this too." Her gaze softened. "But, Taylor what does your heart say?"

Taylor took a deep breath the warm breeze carrying the scent of the sea and the distant sound of crashing waves. Here in this paradise found, worries about financial management seemed almost absurd.

"Honestly? My heart says this place could be a new beginning for us" she confessed. "A chance to put down roots maybe even start a business..." she trailed off, a dreamy look in her eye.

Liz chuckled. "Business woman Taylor... I like sound of that" she teased. A sly glint entered her eye. "Maybe we open a gym here. Island paradise workout, da?"

Taylor burst into laughter. "We'd have the fittest clientele on the planet!"

And so began the discussion. They talked for hours tossing around ideas -- a bed and breakfast, a wellness retreat, a diving school. The possibilities were endless and as they built their dream together the decision became surprisingly clear.

"We keep it" Taylor said with newfound determination. "And we make it our own."

Has they pass the main hall way Taylor stopped dead in her tracks she thought the rocking chair was rocking..Do you see that Liz is that chair rocking.... Liz shaking her head "Im not sure".... Taylor "You know when I visited my Aunt Jane here she used to hold me in her lap and read to me"...

A shiver ran down Taylor's spine. The bright Caribbean sunlight suddenly felt muted as they stared at the antique rocking chair. It swayed gently, a silent creak echoing in the otherwise quiet hallway.

"Eyes playing tricks" Liz muttered but her voice lacked conviction. She moved closer reaching out a hesitant hand as if to confirm the chair was indeed, empty.

"That's where she used to sit" Taylor whispered her voice barely audible. "Aunt Jane... she'd hold me and we'd read stories together. About pirates and hidden treasure..." Her gaze locked with Liz's a touch of fear mingled with the warmth.

Liz, ever the pragmatist, scoffed lightly. "Maybe draft yes? Old house, on island... makes sense."

But as she spoke her eyes never left the rocking chair. She stepped forward placing her hand on the smooth wooden back. For a moment the movement ceased then slowly resumed a soft creaking rhythm against the silence.

Taylor swallowed hard the memory of Aunt Jane's warm laughter swirling in her head. "Liz..." she started but her voice caught in her throat.

Liz gently patted Taylor's shoulder. "Come let's unpack. Sun sea... much better than ghost yes?" She tried for a lightness her expression didn't quite match.

That night as they lay in their luxurious bed eyes adjusting to the darkness Taylor couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. She nudged Liz gently.

"Liz are you awake?

"Mmm? What is it love?" Liz's voice was thick with sleep.

"I... I think I heard the rocking chair again," Taylor whispered.

Liz shifted, pulling Taylor closer, her warmth a comforting anchor. "Is just an old house settling, Taylor. Let's sleep."

But as Taylor closed her eyes, the rhythmic creak of the rocking chair seemed to echo in her mind, an unsettling lullaby in their island paradise.

The morning sun a playful intruder peeked through the curtains painting stripes of light across their entwined bodies. Liz stirred first a sleepy smile gracing her lips as she admired the sight of Taylor tousled and beautiful next to her.

With a playful groan Taylor stretched sending goosebumps dancing across Liz's skin. "Ready for another glorious day in paradise?" she asked her voice husky with sleep.

Liz grinned. "Only if it involves pool time."

They wasted no time. Naked and carefree they raced to the pool Taylor's laughter echoing through the air as she shoved Liz in with a playful shriek. Liz retaliated, a splash of cool water greeting Taylor's face. Soon, they were engaged in a playful water battle their laughter echoing amidst the cascading water.

After a refreshing cool down they clung to each other their bodies slick and gleaming in the morning light. A slow teasing kiss deepened their lips exploring each other with a familiarity that still sent shivers down their spines. Then, with a playful giggle Taylor submerged her eyes wide open underwater.

Liz followed suit the world morphing into a shimmering distorted dreamscape. They chased each other through the cool embrace of the water their bodies a symphony of movement and light. Surfacing for air they exchanged a look that needed no words -- pure unadulterated joy.

Floating beside Liz Taylor cupped a handful of water and flicked it playfully at her lover's face. "Speaking of paradise" she began a mischievous glint in her eye "there's this little ice-cream shop in town. Aunt Jane and I used to go there all the time. They have the most incredible mango ice cream..."

Liz's eyes widened. "Mango ice cream you say? Sounds like the perfect way to explore this island paradise." She winked at Taylor a playful challenge in her gaze. "Lead the way beautiful. But be warned I may just steal a taste... and a kiss."

Taylor laughed the sound cascading across the water like wind chimes. "Challenge accepted my love. But be prepared to lose... on both counts."

And with that hand in hand they embarked on their first adventure together on this sun-drenched island the promise of delicious ice cream and playful competition hanging heavy in the air. The rocking chair its unsettling presence relegated to the back of their minds for now couldn't dampen the spark of joy that ignited between them. The island may hold secrets but for Taylor and Liz this morning was all about the sweetness of the present -- and the promise of a future as vibrant and delicious as mango ice cream.

The day unfolded with the languid pace of an island afternoon. The sweet tang of mango still lingered on their lips as they wandered through the cobblestone streets of the town. Quaint shops with brightly painted shutters beckoned them in and they reveled in the cheerful greetings from the locals and the easygoing rhythm of island life.

Liz paused in front of a small boutique drawn to a vibrant sundress swaying lightly in the window display. Taylor watched a soft smile playing on her lips, as Liz stepped inside to talk to the friendly shopkeeper.

A flash of inspiration struck Taylor. Beside the boutique was a small, unassuming jewelry store. On a whim, she wandered in, her heart fluttering with a mixture of excitement and nerves. Glass cases glittered with rings necklaces, and bracelets yet her eyes were drawn to an exquisite emerald ring. Its deep green fire seemed to capture the lushness of the island and more importantly the depth of Liz's enigmatic eyes.

An almost irrational certainty settled over Taylor. This was it. She bought the ring her fingers trembling slightly as she slid it into her pocket.

That evening with the sun painting the sky in hues of orange and pink they dined on fresh caught seafood on the veranda overlooking the twinkling sea. The salty tang of the air the gentle rhythm of the waves and the warmth of Liz's smile beside her made Taylor's heart overflow with contentment.

Then, seemingly spurred by the magic of the moment her hand found the ring in her pocket.

"Liz," she started, voice slightly unsteady. "There's something I want to ask you."

Liz turned her gaze to Taylor a mix of surprise and curiosity swirling in her usually guarded eyes.

Taylor took a deep breath and pulled out the small velvet box.

"Yelizaveta, my darling Liz, ever since I've met you, my world has seemed brighter bolder. You challenge me, you protect me, you make me laugh like I never thought possible." She opened the box revealing the emerald nestled within.

"You may have escaped a gulag but with me, you found a home. My heart is yours if you'll have it. Liz will you spend the rest of your days with me? Is this the kind of commitment you're ready for?"

Tears welled up in Liz's eyes but they were tears of joy. Her usual stoicism softened replaced by a radiant vulnerability.

"Taylor," she choked out "da. Yes. A thousand times yes."

Taylor reached out and wiped away a tear that had escaped from Liz's eye. "It's okay" she said softly. "You don't have to say anything. Just know that with me, you'll always have someone to lean on. And I promise to always be there for you, no matter what."

As their fingers intertwined Liz felt a sense of peace wash over her. She looked deeply into Taylor's eyes and saw a love that was unconditional and true. "Taylor," she whispered her voice barely audible "I would be honored to spend the rest of my days with you. I will never take that for granted."

With tender fingers Liz cupped Taylor's face wiping away the last of her tears. She leaned in closer feeling the warmth of Taylor's breath against her lips. Her heart raced as she closed the distance between them, their lips meeting in a kiss that was both familiar and brand new. It was a kiss filled with hope with promise with the knowledge that together they could face anything.

As their lips parted Liz looked deep into Taylor's eyes and knew that this was where she belonged. She could see the love that Taylor had for her reflected back in those beautiful green orbs. With a smile she leaned in again this time deepening their kiss her hands sliding around Taylor's waist, pulling her closer still.

Taylor's heart soared as she felt the warmth of Liz's body against hers. She savored the taste of her lips, the softness of her skin, the way they fit together so perfectly. It was as if they were two pieces of a puzzle finally finding their rightful place beside each other. She reveled in the feeling of being wanted of being loved, of being truly cherished.

Liz with trembling fingers slowly undo Taylor's strings that are holding her sundress to her shoulders. The cloth falls to the floor revealing Taylor's naked body to Liz. She gasps at the sight of Taylor's bare skin the goosebumps on her arms and legs a testament to how intensely she is feeling this moment. Taylor's breasts are small and perky, the nipples hard and pink, and her stomach flat and toned. Liz's fingers itch to touch every inch of Taylor's skin to explore this new territory, to learn the contours of the woman who has captured her heart.

She starts with Taylor's shoulders tracing the lines of her collarbones with her fingertips before moving down to her breasts. She cups one in her palm feeling the weight of it marveling at the softness of the skin. Her thumb circles the nipple teasing it gently until it hardens beneath her touch. Taylor lets out a shuddering breath her hips moving involuntarily against Liz's hand.

Liz moves lower her fingers tracing the delicate line of Taylor's navel before dipping into the warm silky hair between her legs. She gently parting Taylor's folds, revealing her wetness to the touch. Her fingers slide along her skin teasing and exploring finding the spot that makes Taylor arch her back and gasp. She circles her fingertip around that spot relishing in the way Taylor's body responds to her touch.

As Liz continues to touch her Taylor feels herself growing increasingly lost in the sensations. She closes her eyes focusing on the feel of Liz's fingers the heat of her breath on her skin. She can feel the desire building inside her a tightness low in her belly that spreads outward making every nerve ending tingle. She wants nothing more than to feel Liz's body against hers to feel their skin pressed together, to feel their hearts beating in perfect rhythm.

Liz senses this building desire and moves to kneel between Taylor's legs her eyes never leaving Taylor's face. She gently guides Taylor's hand down to her own hip wanting her to feel the strength and warmth of her body. As their fingers intertwine she leans in kissing Taylor's neck her lips moving up to her ear. "I want you Taylor," she whispers. "I want to feel you wrapped around me I want to taste you."

Taylor's breath hitches at Liz's words her body arching into the touch. She feels the wetness between her legs the ache in her core and the desire for Liz grows even stronger. She wraps her legs around Liz's hips pulling her closer feeling the heat of her body against her own. "Please Liz" she whispers her voice shaking. "Please touch me."

Liz smiles against Taylor's neck her fingers slipping between their entwined hands guiding one of Taylor's hands down to her breast. She feels Taylor's touch through the thin fabric of her bra, the softness of her palm against her sensitive nipple. She lets out a shuddering breath as Taylor's touch sends waves of pleasure through her body.

Her other hand continues to explore Taylor's wetness teasing and circling her clit with expert fingers. Taylor's hips buck upward seeking more contact, more friction. The sounds of their breath mingling together fills the air each exhalation a moan of desire and need.

Liz moaning for Taylor to free her breasts from her bra her eyes pleading with Taylor to touch her. Taylor hesitates for a moment her hand hovering over Liz's bra before she finally unclasps it and slides it off revealing Liz's perfect breasts to her. She

gently cups one of them in her hand feeling the weight and softness of it marveling at the pebbled nipple that hardens beneath her touch. She moves her thumb over the nipple teasing and circling it as Liz arches her back her hips moving against Taylor's hand.

Their kiss deepens becoming more urgent as they both feel the rising tide of desire. Taylor's other hand moves down slipping between them to touch Liz's wetness. She parts her lips with two fingers feeling the heat and slickness of her. Liz gasps her hips bucking upward as Taylor's fingers find her clit circling it expertly. The sensation is almost too much to bear as pleasure washes over her in waves.

Her breath comes in ragged gasps her eyes clenched tightly shut. She feels Taylor's fingers move faster her hips meeting each stroke in perfect rhythm. The air grows heavy with the sound of their moans their bodies moving together in a dance of need and want. Liz's hands move to Taylor's hips urging her on demanding more.

Their kiss becomes even more urgent their tongues tangling in a desperate search for release. Taylor's fingers continue to tease and circle her clit her other hand moving to cup and squeeze her breast. Liz's body feeling the pleasure rising her back bowing in a perfect arc as pleasure washes over her in wave after wave.

She whispers into Taylor's ear "I'm close I'm so close..." Her hips move faster her body arching into the touch as she feels the build up of release. Taylor's fingers never stop moving in perfect rhythm with her urging her on. With a shuddering moan Liz's body tenses and then releases her orgasm crashing over her in a wave of heat and pleasure.

Her fingers dig into Taylor's hips as she cries out her body shaking with the intensity of the sensation. Taylor's own release is close now feeling the tightening of Liz's body around her fingers the moans and gasps filling the air. She matches Liz's rhythm moving faster harder her own breath coming in ragged gasps.

Their bodies are flush against each other sweat beginning to bead on their skin. Taylor leans in kissing Liz deeply, tasting herself on her lips. Her fingers move faster seeking out Liz's sensitive spots knowing just how to drive her over the edge. Liz arches her back moaning into their kiss her hips bucking upward in time with Taylor's thrusting fingers.

Liz's legs wrap around Taylor's hips pulling her closer still. Taylor leans down nipping at Liz's neck before moving back up to kiss her lips. The taste of their mouths mingles the wetness of their skin creating a sensual friction as they glide against each other. Taylor's fingers continue to work their magic teasing and circling her clit driving her closer to another orgasm.

Liz's nails dig into her back her hips moving in time with the rhythm Taylor's creating. She cries out, her voice raw and needy, as the pleasure builds and builds inside her. She's so close so close to the edge and Taylor can feel it too the tightening of her muscles the way she arches into her touch.

With a final thrust of her hips Liz comes her body shuddering with the force of the release. Her fingers clench tight around Taylor's hip, her nails digging in as she moans her name her voice hoarse and desperate. Taylor feels the tightening of Liz's muscles around her fingers the way she clings to her, and it sends a wave of heat through her own body.

Chapter 2 Secrets of the past

Taylor awoke with a start. Sunlight dappled through the gauzy curtains, but a strange heaviness hung in the air. It wasn't the tropical humidity, but a familiar, almost comforting fragrance -- the unmistakable scent of her Aunt Jane's perfume.