The Life and Woes of Morgan Quinn
Chapter 1
The Situation as it Stands
Morgan stared blankly at her alarm clock not truly seeing the red glowing numbers in the dim light of her bedroom. So what, I dumped my boyfriend. That doesn’t mean I’m heartless….right? She groaned rolling over in bed for the umpteenth time that morning. Finally giving in to the low growl of her stomach she flung back her purple comforter and sat up throwing her feet over the edge of her bed, letting them dangle for a moment before finally willing herself to stand. Much of that morning was spent in monotony; making her bed, making breakfast, watching the news, and dressing. Once dressed the young woman now in her early thirties opened the front door and cursed under her breath at the rain pouring off her porch awning. She turned her pale blue eyes over to the stand where her umbrella should be located, again she cursed. Fuck Katherine you took my damn umbrella really? Still mentally berating her roommate Katherine she stepped out into the cold rain pulling the hood of her coat over her shoulder length mahogany curls.
Her boy…ex-boyfriend Nathaniel was a business analyst for the International Monetary Fund in Washington, D.C. Nathaniel had a lot going right for him in life; attractive, wealthy, well invested, ambitious, and work oriented. It was his work ethic that had come between him and Morgan in the first place. A year into their relationship she questioned him on where she placed amongst his priorities. Then he had replied that of course she was at the top of his list but in the months that followed Morgan saw less and less of Nathaniel as work and related social functions consumed more of his time. It was two months ago today, on their two year anniversary that she had confessed her concerns and in the ensuing argument broke off their relationship. Though at the time she appeared stoic and unfeeling, underneath it all she was nothing less than a whirlwind of mixed emotions. It hurt them both and part of her still loved Nathaniel, but she was old and wise enough now to know that she needed more than their relationship could ever provide her. What if she had wanted to marry and have a family? Not that she did of course, but that was beside the point. There was not a doubt in her mind that Nathaniel still loved her as well, but sometimes you simply are forced to accept that loving someone is not always enough. That is exactly what had brought her to this current predicament and accompanying bad mood.
The fifteen minute metro ride and five minute walk comprising her morning commute were uneventful as usual. Part of Morgan was relieved to see other urbanites acting drearily in accordance with the weather. Unfortunately for the next few months this weather would be common until late spring when Washington D.C. once again blossomed into life with cherry blossoms and bustling tourists. Turning the last corner on to I Street her eyes latched on to the familiar green sign of her favorite coffee shop. Coffee..oh yes this was indeed a morning for coffee. Placing her order and paying the barista she turned picking up her drink and before she could even register what had happened she found herself oh so gracefully splayed on her ass on the store’s chilly tile floor; coffee all over her clothes and the floor alike. “Fuck, that’s hot,” she yelled moving to get to her feet as quickly as she could. “I’m so sorry miss, please let me,” A handsome young man likely in his late twenties, Morgan guessed, reached out to her with a tan hand and a gentle smile. Pale blue met caramel brown for what seemed to Morgan as an eternity before she felt herself lifted and pulled close to the other by the force. “Are you all right?” He asked softly, concern filling his large expressive eyes. Morgan nodded dumbly in response still holding the man’s hand and staring. A low chuckle escaped his throat and Morgan finally shook herself free of his grasp. “I’m fine, just…soaked.” He frowned at that taking in the state of her clothing as one of the employees appeared with bucket and mop in hand to take care of the mess. “I know it’s not much consolation but may I buy you another coffee?” She nodded slightly as the pair stepped aside letting the disgruntled employee do his work.
Arriving twenty minutes late to the office Morgan sighed heavily seeing her boss looming of her empty desk. “Dear god Quinn what the hell happened to you?” her boss asked his stern expression gradually melting. “The Russians, can’t you tell?” she replied with a smirk. Martin, her boss of five years was a good man. He could be cold and unforgiving one minute and as soft as a teddy bear the next. He was a taller man approaching sixty with broad shoulders, a strong jaw, and graying short hair who took his work seriously and his friendships even more so. “Don’t worry boss I’ll be fine. I look horrible but it’s really not that bad.” “Well then get to work you’ve got twenty minutes to catch up on,” he smiled toothily before turning away and heading back to his office door. Martin paused, gazing back over his shoulder at his employee, “You know you can talk to me right?” “I know Martin, thanks. Don’t worry about me I’ll be okay just a crappy few months.” She smiled wryly. The older man left it at that and returned to his office. Morgan settled into her black swivel chair yanking off her stained coat and hit the round power button on the front of the CPU.
Later that evening when she finally drug herself from the office, boarded the blue line, and then got off at Braddock Road Morgan realized that the past two months had been little more than a blur in her mind’s eye. She wasn’t even entirely sure what day it was, Thursday maybe. Her brief walk home up to Montgomery Street provided her with just enough time to correct her posture and set a mask of impassivity upon her delicate features. The last thing she needed was to alert Katherine that something was upsetting her. Last time Morgan admitted to feeling down she had been physically forced from the cozy townhouse the pair shared to Katherine’s favorite spa for a manicure. As it turned out Katherine only used her as an excuse to get a manicure and pedicure for herself. In fact it had little to do with Katherine’s concern, or lack thereof as it were, for Morgan. Just as Morgan reached the front door and lifted the key it flew open and Katherine beamed at her excitedly. She literally bounced forward hugging the auburn haired woman in front of her tightly. “Oh Morgan you won’t believe what happened today!” Katherine practically squealed squeezing the other. As Morgan opened her mouth to respond Katherine interrupted, “I finally got my picture on the front cover of the magazine. I know it’s been a long time coming hasn’t it? After all I am the most stunning example of the female form at that wretched place. I knew you would agree with me and be happy for me Morgy!” Morgan simply stared at Katherine blankly no longer being able to feel anything below her chest. She rolled her eyes and with great effort removed the blonde.
As night fell upon the city and the bustle of cars at rush hour thinned Morgan caught herself gazing distractedly at the antique mirror that hung above her dresser. The mirror a large oval was framed in a dark cherry wood hand carved with scrolling vines and wisps of air. It was Morgan’s most valued possession having inherited it from her father who had received the heirloom as a teen upon the death of his great grandfather. Her father had told her stories as a small girl of the power the centuries old family heirloom held and how when the time came the responsibility of caring for it would fall to her. Now in her thirties Morgan wasn’t entirely sure she could cling to the romantic notions of childhood fairytales, but maybe just for a while she could let her rational judgment lapse and pretend that a place beyond the mirror, another world, existed where she could be reunited with her father and have a life that truly meant something. As long as she could remember there had been a deep seeded longing within her for something greater, something beyond anything that this world could ever offer, but with each passing year as the mirror’s reflective surface dulled so too does that spark of desire.
Chapter 2
That Which Has Come to Pass
As a little girl growing up on the South Side of Chicago Morgan Quinn had a modest but enjoyable childhood. Both Quinn parents, Patricia and Rory, worked hard to provide for their family. Rory served on the Chicago Police Department and his wife Patricia was a homemaker and seamstress. The family’s three bedroom home was always buzzing with activity with Morgan and Daniel, making trouble, Patricia cooking or cleaning, and Grandpa and Nana Quinn yelling at the television or each other for that matter. The Quinns had lived in the neighborhood of Bridgeport since Grandpa Quinn’s parents had moved to the immigrant dominated neighborhood at the turn of the century. Grandpa Quinn grew up there just a few blocks south of the home they currently occupied. After he married their family settled down here too. Rory was a practical man and could come up with no reason as to why they should break a Quinn family tradition now; so when he married Patricia they moved in with his elderly parents and made Bridgeport their new home. For St. Patrick’s Day every year the whole family would march proudly down the streets of Chicago to the banks of the river, where the children marveled at its brilliant shade of emerald green. Rory had always told his young daughter that the every year it was the magic of St. Patrick’s blessing that caused the Chicago River to flow green.
Despite the pleasant memories surrounding most holidays, the summer months had always been Morgan’s favorite. Since the Quinn family lived directly across S. Poplar Avenue from the park it was easy for her and Daniel to spend hours out in the blazing sun swinging and sliding. The result of such days spent having hard fun was always the same, sun burn. That was truly the only time Morgan cursed her Irish heritage. In the summer her parents would take little Morgan and her older cousin Daniel to the lake for swimming, and if they were good ice cream too. Just a few weeks following Morgan’s tenth birthday in late July of 1987 something changed. Daniel and Morgan made their way leisurely back from the park that hot and hazy day completely unaware of the unfolded events which would influence the rest of their lives. As they entered 2305 S. Poplar Avenue both children were slightly alarmed at not seeing Mrs. Quinn in the entryway to greet them as she did every day. They were even more alarmed to hear Patricia in the living room sobbing. As the pair entered the room Grandpa and Nana Quinn sat silently on the couch staring down at their laps. Patricia sat across from them in Rory’s recliner wailing uncontrollably.
Rory Quinn an exemplary police officer of fourteen years’ service was dead, shot in the line of duty. Within a week the funeral had been conducted and the body buried with all of the proper Catholic ritual. The day of the funeral had been dreadfully hot even under the green canopy provided by the funeral home. The service ended abruptly as a fierce summer thunderstorm materialized. Several of the attending police officers approached Patricia and the children giving them their own personal condolences, each stating how good a man and cop Rory had been. Many of them even offered monetary assistance knowing Patricia’s sewing wouldn’t be enough to support the family of five. As many of the attendees fled to their dry cars, Morgan remained behind sitting next to her father’s casket. No magic or fairytales this time. Patricia, as heartbroken as she was, did not leave her bedroom for three days after the service. Nana did the cooking while Daniel and Morgan worked cooperatively to finish their housework. When Patricia did emerge from the room she was a different woman. Her voice took on a more stern tone and in the months and years that followed she taught her children discipline and the importance of honest hard work. She began working two part-time jobs, one at the local grocery and the other at a dry cleaner. Grandpa Quinn even pitched in going back to his salesman position part-time and once Daniel was sixteen he too picked up a job.
Nana Quinn did her part by cooking, cleaning, and watching over the children as best she could in her old age. Even now Grandpa, Nana, and Patricia still live at 2305 S. Poplar Ave. while Morgan and her brother moved as far away as they could get from Bridgeport. College and life in general had led Daniel to New York City as an accountant and Morgan to Washington D.C. where she found temporary work as a contract linguist for the FBI right out of college. She knew that minor in French was good for something. Five years ago she found her true calling working as the head of educational programming for a local non-profit promoting arts and culture in the D.C. metro area. Weekly events including concerts, art shows, dance performances, and painting classes keep her busy while allowing her to do something with that degree in arts administration that her mother told her for years was a waste of loan money. At one of these events Morgan met Nathaniel Moore, a brilliant and devilishly handsome business analyst. He had come to see a performance by the Washington D.C. Symphony Orchestra.
As he stepped inside the lobby of the old concert hall he was almost immediately greeted by a young woman with pale lightly freckled skin, piercing pale blue eyes framed with dark glasses, and long auburn curls tied back in a high ponytail. The woman was of a slight build barely reaching a height of five feet with a petite frame and delicate features to match. Not the most attractive but pretty none the less. She greeted him to the performance cheerfully and introduced herself as Morgan Quinn. It was those eyes, Nathaniel kept telling himself. That had to be why he couldn’t get the woman out of his thoughts. At the end of that evening’s performance he overheard pieces of conversation involving Ms. Quinn and fond her soft voice and sharp wit utterly irresistible. He began attending regularly making sure to engage in conversation with the young woman for at least a few minutes at each function. By the end of the month he had asked her to join him for drinks and by the end of six months they were living together in his rented condo in Courthouse. Moving in together seemed like the best way for the pair to continue their relationship. Both of them were busy young professionals with their minds and ambitions focused on their careers. Living in the same place ensured that despite their obsessions with work they would still see each other each and every day. Though he loved his work, Nathaniel soon realized that coming home at night to his girlfriend had become his favorite part of the day. Tonight was no exception. Stepping inside he placed his coat in the closet, kicked off his shoes, and headed straight for the kitchen where his nose indicated he would find Morgan and supper.
“Hey there handsome,” she smiled turning to place a light kiss on his winter chilled lips. “How was work today?” “Good babe, how about you?” “It was a good day. I finished writing up the script and curriculum for the new school outreach program for the spring.” “Nice, I also finished up a project today but enough about work.” He nuzzled into her thick silky hair. He both heard and felt a soft giggle come from Morgan as she attempted to keep her focus on dinner and not on the sexy ass man behind her now letting his hands slide up and down her sides. “Nate if you don’t stop I’m going to burn dinner.” “Food is food, even burnt,” he replied with a chuckle as she whacked him with a wooden spoon on the thigh. “Okay, okay, I’m sorry I give up.” He threw his hands in the air in a sign of defeat and obediently stepped out of the kitchen so as not to be tempted to molest his girlfriend while she cooked. Besides Nathaniel figured he was lucky to get as far as he had. Morgan had a strict rule about no foreplay or sexual activities in the kitchen or dining room. For some strange reason she was a little OCD about no sex where food was prepared or served. Besides he would make her pay after dinner.
Once the table was cleared and the leftovers stored, Nathaniel tugged Morgan down to their chocolate brown couch where she settled atop of him. Lips met, lightly at first, but quickly becoming more eager with each passing second. Morgan squirmed purposely pressing her thigh into Nathaniel’s groin making the man moan softly beneath her. She smirked triumphantly at being rewarded with her boyfriend’s mewls of pleasure and decided to take it a step further. Small delicate hands slipped beneath his blue dress shirt caressing the smooth skin of his abdomen. She teased his nipples pinching softly before grazing her nails across them and back down his well defined torso. Finally having enough of Morgan in charge, Nathaniel bucked his hips up throwing his girlfriend off balance. He used this as an opportunity to roll them reversing their positions so that he now rested on top of her. Dark auburn curls cascaded across and down the arm of the sofa and Nathaniel wasted no time getting his free hand lost in those loose strands. Regaining her senses Morgan made quick work of the blue dress shirt tossing it aside before her skilled fingers moved to unfasten the black belt and dress slacks. Nathaniel hissed feeling one of those slight hands wrapping around his heated and swollen cock. He practically growled, in seconds both were devoid of all clothing their bodies pressed closely together. As a finger slide inside it caused the pair to let out matching groans of anticipation. “Please Nate, I need you inside me,” she whined breathily as that single digit pressed further inside of her. Soon, but not quite soon enough for Morgan’s liking, the finger withdrew and in its place a much larger hotter appendage pressed in, inch by delicious inch until he could press no further. Pale thighs willingly parted further and wrapped themselves about his waist tightly. Initially the pace was slow with deep thrusts, but with the passing minutes their movements became more frantic filing the room with the sounds of slick skin slapping together. Pushing harder, faster, more desperately the pair let matching cries of pleasure escape them reaching climax simultaneously continuing to thrust wildly riding out the lingering waves of orgasm.
Morgan’s love for Nathaniel kept her blind for nearly a year as the newness of their relationship wore off and they settled into the routine of daily life. In the three months approaching their two year anniversary Morgan began to feel she was living with a ghost. Nathaniel went to work early and came home late. The pair hardly saw each other even on weekends it was rare for them to sit down for a meal just the two of them. Nathaniel insisted that nothing was wrong and that his office was particularly busy but that given time his hours would lessen and for that entire year Morgan listened because she desperately hoped it was the truth. She had never fallen so hard and as fast with anyone as she had done with Nathaniel and it terrified her to think of life without him. Not until the night of their two year anniversary did Morgan reach her breaking point. They had agreed two weeks prior to meet for dinner at seven o’clock sharp at their favorite seafood restraint in Georgetown. An hour into waiting Morgan ordered herself a bottle of wine and dined alone. Once home she found Nathaniel at the dining room table jotting down notes on scraps of paper with his laptop off to the side. She sighed heavily simply allowing her coat and purse to drop loudly on to the tile of their small foyer.
Nathaniel had not even turned to face her yet when he heard in a soft defeated voice, “I’m done, and I give up. I’m breaking up with you Nathaniel.” As the last words left her lips she moved swiftly across the condo into the master bedroom where she proceeded to fill a duffle bag with as many of her clothes and belongings as possible. Now registering what had been said Nathaniel rushed to the doorway and blankly stared at Morgan for a lengthy period. “Baby please step back from the bag let’s talk about this.” Without warning Morgan turned on him with her full fury. Intense blue eyes filled with hurt and disappointment narrowed at him. “We could have talked over dinner, you know our anniversary dinner!” “Fuck…Morgan I’m” “What sorry? Sure you are. Back the fuck away from me and I’ll come back in a few days to get the rest of my shit. Goodbye Nathaniel.” Morgan yanked the duffle bag over her shoulder and stormed from the room snagging her purse and coat as she approached the front door. Moments later Nathaniel cringed at the reverberating echoes of the front door slamming. God what have I done, he thought before sinking down to their bed.
With bleary eyes and a heavy heart Morgan made the short drive to her old college buddy Katherine’s place in Alexandria. She wasn’t even one hundred percent sure the woman would let her stay, but it was the only place she could think to go. If nothing else there were plenty of hotels nearby. With little difficulty she parallel parked the car and snagged her things from the passenger seat. At first reaching the door to the townhome a wave of doubt washed over her. What if she tells me to leave or that she can’t deal with my problems? I don’t know how much more I can take tonight. Building up the courage Morgan knocked loudly on the solid wood door. Within seconds of hearing approaching heeled footsteps the door opened and Katherine stepped into the light being emitted from her porch light. It had been a couple of months since Morgan had last seen the social butterfly turned fashion model. As usual Katherine was dress impeccably, her red dress hugging her every curve and luscious lips painted to match. “Morgy, sweetie what are you doing here?” “I know this is sudden Katherine but I could really use a place to stay. Can I crash here for a night or two?” “Of course Morgan, come in, come in.” Katherine stepped aside and shut the front door behind them.
“I know you’ve never been quite as lovely as me darling but honestly you’re looking atrocious. What the heavens happened?” “I walked out on my boyfriend Nathaniel.” “Well an attractive man like that it was only a matter of time before he cheated you poor homely thing,” she whispered the last part placing long slender fingers on Morgan’s cheek caressing it soothingly. “He didn’t cheat on me Katherine, at least not with another person anyways.” “No matter what the reason you are welcome here. Besides this place has been so quiet since I dumped Richard.” “You mean the plastic surgeon you were dating?” “Yes, he lied to me; he said he would give me a good deal on a nose job. God men are pigs.” Morgan thought it best not to ask about the details. Katherine ushered her into the living room tugging her coat and bags from Morgan before sitting on the couch and patting the spot next to her. Morgan slumped ungracefully to the plush sofa and scooted forward resting her head on the taller woman’s shoulder. For the first and last time she wept over Nathaniel and surprisingly Katherine was gentle and comforting two words Morgan would have never associated with the blonde.
By the end of that week Katherine had arranged for movers to pick up and deliver the rest of Morgan’s belongings from Nathaniel’s condo insisting that it would simply be unhealthy for her friend to be in contact with him again so soon after the break up. Living with Katherine wasn’t so bad as long as you knew what to expect from the woman. Morgan knew that typically Katherine was quite self-absorbed and would likely leave her to her own devices more times than not. Not to mention the model kept busy with photo shoots, social events, and dating any man wealthy enough to support her expensive taste. The townhome was already mostly furnished and filled with all the latest lavish décor. Even the cookware was of the highest quality despite the fact that Katherine never cooked. Only the absolute best was good enough for her and now her new housemate. Unexpectedly Morgan settled in and felt comfortably at home with a week or two and distracted herself by pushing full steam ahead into her work and personalizing her new bedroom. Before she knew it months had passed and even though her heart still ached and longed for Nathaniel as much as it ever had, she found her own unique ways of coping. Coming to terms with the fact that she made the right choice was the hardest but most rewarding part.
Chapter 3
Having a Good Eye
For the tenth time in the past hour Henry checked to make sure all of his camera equipment was perfectly placed on set so that once his golden haired goddess arrived they could start right away. In just minutes the well known model Katherine Miles would glide into the room radiating beauty and grace. She was a stunning creature, no one could deny that, but to Henry Warren she was everything. Tall, slender, tan, perfect proportions, plump lips, and gently waved golden locks of hair. He had waited weeks for the chance to work with her and finally his dream was coming true; now if only he could confess to her how strongly he felt. No worries, I’ll tell her soon enough. We’ll work wonderfully together and things will progress naturally. Henry thought while adjusting the light. The double doors into the studio space opened and in stepped Katherine clad only in a slinky white dress. Brown eyes wandered her body taking in every detail as a sense of awe swept over him at her flawless skin and delightful figure. Katherine meanwhile brushed right past him and seated herself striking her first pose. After several moments of starring at her she finally sighed and let her body relax. “I’m sorry is there a problem here…what’s your name again?” “It’s Henry, and no problem at all sorry.” “Right well Henry, if you don’t mind I have places to be I’m a very busy woman dear.” “Yes, Miss Miles.”
The rest of the session was carried on in relative silence in between Henry’s requests for different poses. As soon as they were finished Katherine rushed from the room rambling on about being late for her mud treatment. Several minutes of utter quiet elapsed as Henry gazed longingly at the space where the beautiful woman had stood only a brief time ago. Don’t worry Henry you’ll tell her next time, he told himself as he tried desperately not to pout. After lunch Henry began the task of downloading all of the day’s images to his laptop and editing them for submission later. He knew he really needed to step his work up a notch to not only impress Katherine, but to also prove to his uncle Jeffrey Warren that he was in fact a talented and capable photographer. Convincing his uncle to give him this position was more difficult than Henry had anticipated. Most of his previous work had been either freelance or for private clients meaning he had never worked in a fashion magazine environment. Jeffrey had finally given in when Henry agreed to take business classes part-time so that one day he would inherit the business since Jeffrey had no children of his own. It seemed like a compromise that suited both of their needs.
“Sir, may I come in?” Henry asked politely with a knock to his uncle’s office door. “Yes boy come in, and stop saying sir.” “Umm…well uncle I wanted to come share with you some of the best shots from today’s session with Ms. Miles. I was hoping that perhaps we could use one of them on the February cover.” Jeffrey examined several of the photos presented and let out a hm.. in response to each. “Fine choice Henry, sex sells after all. Okay pick your favorite and leave it in my box.” Henry smiled brightly nodding enthusiastically before bolting from the room. His heart was racing and his thoughts reeling. He couldn’t wait to tell Katherine she would be elated. Maybe she would even go out with him for getting her on the cover. She had been complaining for months that the cover was where she belonged and she simply couldn’t understand what was taking so long for her to appear in her rightful place at the center of attention.
He wasted no time the following week when he saw Katherine in the employee lounge sipping away at a soy late, no fat, no whip, with Splenda, and extra foam; her favorite of course. Nervously fidgeting as he approached Henry cleared his throat to get the woman’s attention away from her own nails. He sincerely hoped this would go much better than his morning had, poor thing I really didn’t mean to run into her, Henry focus. “Oh good morning, wait…was it Harold? No Henry.” “Good morning Ms. Miles it’s a pleasure to see you as always and you’re looking stunning as ever.” “I do look damn good today don’t I?” With her one free hand she emphasized her statement with a light touch to golden strands of hair. “Ms. Miles I wanted to be the first to give you the good news. You will be featured on the cover for February’s issue.” Katherine instantly perked up setting down her beverage and leaping to her feet enthusiastically. “Really Henry you mean it?” “Absolutely.” “Good, it’s about time my work was appreciated around here.” “I know Ms. Miles, actually I was wondering…” “Oh I bet there will be fan mail and interview requests swamping this place come February. I should prepare, practice even!” she interrupted grabbing her drink. Katherine gently placed her hand on the young man’s shoulder, “I look forward to working with you again,” she winked and was gone. Henry let out the breath he didn’t even know he was holding and let his head drop in defeat. “I was so close this time.”
An entire month elapsed before Henry was once again blessed with seeing his blonde angel. Their next meeting was at the fundraising party hosted by the magazine for Valentine’s Day. Since the Washington D.C. area is known for its singles scene Henry had suggested last year an idea for hosting a fundraising event based on speed dating working in cooperation with several D.C. bar hotspots. The culmination of the evening’s events included an auction to win a date with Katherine Miles this month’s cover model. Once the auction concluded Jeffrey Warren approached the microphone stand. “Ladies and gentlemen I have an important announcement to make in regards to the future of Glam D.C. Magazine. As you all know I have been the owner and Executive Officer of this organization since its inception twenty three years ago. It was a difficult decision to make, but I have decided that at the end of 2011 I will hand over full ownership and responsibilities to my young and talented nephew Henry Warren. For the remainder of this year he will work closely with me to understand the inner workings of this company and I know he will reinvigorate this magazine with the youthful energy to be in business for another twenty three years. My nephew,” Jeffrey gestured to his right well dressed young man approached the microphone. “First of all thank you so much for your support for past two decades and for the fantastic turnout for this evening’s event. My uncle and I will do our best to ensure that the transition of authority is as smooth as possible. I sincerely look forward to working with those of you whom I have not yet had the pleasure with and eagerly anticipate continuing my working relationship with those of whom I have had the pleasure of working with.” Henry bowed graciously stepping away from his uncle who took back the microphone to give closing remarks.
Sitting off on stage left after the auction Katherine was elated to her the top bid for a date with the area’s top model, her of course. As Jeffrey made his announcement and introduced Henry to the audience Katherine smiled practically hearing a chime go off in her ears. He’s young, relatively attractive, from a good family, and is soon going to be the owner of a magazine. Bingo, I just found my new sugar daddy. Hello Henry. Once Jeffrey left the stage the crowd started to disperse and Katherine took this as a perfect chance to speak with Henry. Floating over to raven haired male with her trademark charming smile in place Katherine placed a hand on Henry’s arm squeezing lightly. “Henry dear you speak so eloquently in public and look how nicely you clean up.” Despite the tan his faced flushed slightly at the sudden attention from Ms. Miles. “Thank you, you on the other hand look as magnificent as always.” “Oh Henry you sweet talker, you’ll make me blush if you keep that up.” A nervous laugh bubbled forth from his lips and he mentally kicked himself for acting like a schoolboy with his first crush on the popular girl at school. “You know I would love to work more, intimately with you Henry after all you are the talent that got me on the cover. “Um..yes, well I mean you’re beautiful it would happened eventually,” “Henry I think you and I would make a perfect match don’t you? I mean me stunning, well known and you powerful and wealthy.” “When you put it like that Katherine…” “I knew you would say yes! Oh Henry you’ve made my heart sing with delight!” She leaned forward placing a chaste kiss to his lips then turned scurrying away excitedly. Henry was stunned. What the fuck just happened here?
Katherine’o9s mind was an extremely challenging thing change. Once she had a goal in mind there was no stopping her and getting Henry Warren on her arm was no exception. Luckily for her it took very little effort on her part considering how completely smitten the boy was with her. Within the span of two months Katherine had succeeded in wrapping Henry tightly around her finger. When not at the office or conduction photo shoots he was by her side. He showered her with gifts of fine wine, jewelry, and evenings out regularly. “Henry I think you should come over to my place for the night.” He smiled and nodded dumbly. Morgan stood in the kitchen in a pale pink matching pajama set making a cup of hot chocolate when she heard the key turn the lock. Upon hearing footfall she called out, “Hey Katherine, have a good day?” “Morgy!” Rushing forward Katherine embraced her roommate. Following closely behind her was a shaggy haired male around thirty or so with caramel skin and eyes to match. He smiled knowingly at her. “Wait, a month or two ago I ran into you,” he more asked than stated. An expression of pure embarrassment spread across Morgan’s face as her skin flushed. “Yes it had to have been you. I’m still really sorry about spilling coffee all over you like that. Wow small world, I can’t believe you are Katherine’s housemate.” “Haha, yeah small world. Right well I’m going upstairs you two love birds have fun.” Morgan bolted for the stairs she sure as hell wouldn’t get in the way of the new couple.
Katherine smiled sweetly at her retreating friend and turned back to Henry. “I was thinking you and I could have some alone time.’ “That sounds, great,” Henry replied mentally smacking his inner teenager for immediately screaming he was about to score. She led him gently tugging on his sleeve into the living room down on to the couch. “You stay right here I’ll be back okay.” Katherine turned back towards the kitchen giving him a playful wink as she passed. His heart began pounding in his chest and his skin felt hot. Without his permission certain parts of his anatomy were very interested in the possibility of seeing Katherine naked, or hell just to make out with the woman would be more than great. Several minutes passed when Katherine returned with a fresh and steaming bowl of popcorn picking up a blue ray box from the entertainment center. “Oh this is my favorite. I hope you like it sweetie,” she cooed cheerily. Once the disc was in she plopped on to the sofa snuggling into Henry and interlocking their limbs. She only moved once in a while to reach for the popcorn bowl she had placed on his lap.
“I love this move.” She replied as the opening credits began and the title appeared in large white font across the screen. “Sleepless in Seattle?” Henry asked confusedly. “What do you not like it?” “No, I mean yes I do. Actually I love it. God Tom Hanks you are the man,” he chuckled rubbing a hand through his hair anxiously hoping that Katherine bought it. “You are so romantic Henry.” Katherine pushed up from her position on the couch so that she could press her lips tenderly to her boyfriend’s. The pair continued to hold each other close as the movie played. By the end Katherine’s hazel eyes were filled with unshed tears. She wiped her face repeatedly. “I’m sorry, it’s just so wonderful; why can’t my life be like that?” “Really it’s okay sweetheart. I could be your Tom Hanks,” he offered sincerely with a coy smile. She giggled and reached for a handful of popcorn kernels tossing them in the young man’s face, laughing hysterically. He responded immediately with a counterattack flinging pieces of food all in her hair and accidentally down her blouse. Their popcorn fight then quickly devolved into a fierce tickling match ending with the two of them on the living room panting heavily trying to regain their breath. “I haven’t had this much fun with a girl in years. Thank you.” “Don’t,” she replied playfully whacking him on the shoulder. “You’ll make me blush. Come on let’s head to bed it’s really late.” He nodded in agreement. The two walked hand in hand as they made their way up the wide staircase up to the second floor. Once upstairs Henry was taken aback by the particularly feminine state of Katherine’s bedroom décor. He found the white lace curtains, pink comforter, and pale violet rug a little overwhelming for his delicate male sensibilities, but decided it best to keep his thoughts to himself. He slept fully clothed with Katherine wrapping her arms tightly around his middle. He sighed partially in relief but mostly in sexual frustration.
By the time Katherine and Henry made it out of bed and downstairs it was obvious that Morgan was long gone. Katherine decided to take this as an opportunity to spend some more quality time with her beloved. She sighed wistfully watching the man work his magic in the kitchen. An immense sense of relief washed over her at realizing that he wasn’t expecting her to cook. It had been years since she had prepared a proper meal she typically stocked up on diet meals. Finally Henry glanced over his shoulder at the blonde. “Why are you looking at me like that Kathy?” “”It’s just that I love it when a man cooks. Honestly Henry I can’t cook anything unless it involves a microwave.” “That’s okay I love cooking it relaxes me somehow.” Her eyes practically glowed with affection as her mate set down matching plates of pancakes, eggs, and turkey bacon. Despite the remainder of the meal being spent in relative silence it was comfortable and pleasant. After breakfast Katherine witnessed the most erotic and exciting thing she had ever seen. Henry washed and put away the dishes humming contently the entire time. Katherine had never had the pleasure of seeing a domestic task completed willingly by a male for the purpose of courtship. It was breathtaking and it was in that moment watching as Henry’s firm little ass bent over to stow away the skillet that Katherine knew she was in love.
Chapter 4
The Peace Offering
Come on Henry just pick one already. I’m sure whichever blend I choose she’ll appreciate the kind gesture. Geez, she’s not even my girlfriend, but maybe if I can get in good with Morgan I’ll earn brownie points with Kathy! In his left hand was the Columbian and in his right hand the House Blend. One of the college aged baristas finally took pity on him and leaned over the counter. “Can I help with anything sir?” “Perhaps, can you tell me which one of these two blends a woman who orders mocha would like?” “I would go with the House Blend it is a bit milder than the Columbian which has a tendency of being overpowering to some people.” Henry smiled softly in relief and set down the bag of Columbian coffee beans. As he set the bag down on the counter the young man smiled goofily at him, “so is this for a potential or current girlfriend?” Henry’s skin, although being nicely tanned, still flushed with pink at the other’s forward question. “No nothing like that she’s only a friend.” “Friend, sure,” the male in his late teens teased before telling Henry the amount due. Finishing his order Henry headed to the glass double doors pausing for a second to make eye contact with the barista. “Hey is Terry still the owner of this place?” “Yeah sure is. You know our Terry?” “We were college acquaintances and when he first opened this place several years ago he asked me to do the shots for the advertisement material. Could you tell him that Henry Warren says hello?” “Sure thing,”
Blue eyes stared intently at the keypad of her cell phone. Call your mother and finally tell her the truth. Taking in a deep breath her small fingers worked to slowly dial in the number. Bringing the phone to her ear she listened carefully as ringing filled her ears. Once, twice, three times, and then on the fifth ring when Morgan’s thumb shifted to press the end call button the ste3rn voice of an older woman filled the air. “Hi Mom, we need to talk.” “What about this time? Tell me you aren’t lesbian lovers with that blonde twit of a roommate you have.” “Mother,” she hissed lowly a hint of anger building in her voice. “Katherine and I are good friends not lovers and I really don’t appreciate you speaking of her in such a way.” “Get to the point Morgan I have things to do, unless of course you’re calling to tell me I am finally going to be a grandparent.” “I broke up with Nathaniel he was spending more time thinking about work and not enough time thinking about me.” “I should have known this was going to happen. You can’t keep a good man even if your life depended on it.” She flinched; she had expected this phone call to be difficult but the harshness of her mother’s words was cutting deep. “Look I know you were fond of him and you had delusional fantasies of little grandbabies scurrying about but that’s never going to happen and for once I wish you would show at least some concern for me well being. I’m doing great by the way thank you for asking bitch.” Her finger pressed the end button and she tossed the phone at her bed hoping the mattress would absorb most of the force from the impact. Growling she turned her anger at the wall and gave one hell of a punch accompanied with a violent roar of outrage. Slumping to the bed she felt a little better and decided that some ice for her rapidly swelling hand would be nice.
Morgan paced the length of the kitchen back and forth for nearly thirty minutes trying desperately to calm down. What the hell is it about him that gets me riled like this? He just makes me so damn mad. She sighed in frustration. Morgan wanted nothing more than for her close friend to be happy, but for whatever reason she was finding it difficult to get along with Katherine’s boyfriend. If Katherine discovered her disdain for the main it would break her heart and Morgan wouldn’t let that happen especially after all that her friend done for her by opening her home to her when she had nowhere else to go. Morgan recognized that their relationship defied typical definitions of friendship. The two women had very few if any common interests or hobbies. Their professional and personal lives were extremely different except both women highly prized their career ambitions and used work as a means of filling the gap of their personal relationships. They were both capable of putting on a mask of cool indifference in Morgan’s case or that of feigned innocence and naiveté which Katherine had mastered. It was a defensive mechanism and likely not a particularly healthy one. No matter their differences it was understood that if something unfortunate happened that they would be there to support the other. That was the foundation of their relationship even if neither of them ever verbalized it. Instead they subconsciously indulged one another by simply accepting the overzealous squeals of enthusiastic greeting or the quiet time spent together which might seem awkward or forced to the eyes of an outsider.
Hours later as Morgan sat reading in the living room her cell phone beeped, the screen lighting up indicating she had a text message. ‘Can you let Henry in? I’m running late and he’ll get there first.’ Placing the phone down back on the wooden end table she shook her head slightly then decided to go back to her book. Not twenty minutes later the door bell rang and Morgan reluctantly answered it. She gave a soft hello as she pulled the door open and stepped aside giving Henry room to enter. “Sorry about this Kathy got caught in traffic.” “Sure no problem, please make yourself comfortable.” They sat there in utter deafening silence for a stretch of several minutes. Henry was the one to break the tension. “So what do you do for a living?” Blue eyes glanced up at him, “I write up proposals for education programs for a small nonprofit promoting arts and literature.” “Wow nice, you ever work with people yourself?” “Actually yes, since we are a small group I do on occasion actually conduct some of the school programs as well as several special events throughout the year.” “Kids? How do you do it?” An involuntary chuckle passed her lips and the corners of her mouth tugged up into a small smile. “They aren’t that bad. Sometimes it’s actually the adults who are sores since they think they already know everything and can break the rules.” “Damn that’s sad, adults acting no better than a bunch of fourth graders.” “What about you then? I think I remember Katherine mentioning you worked at the magazine.” “I’m one of the photographers actually and by this time next year I’ll officially be the owner to.” “How do you go from photographer to owner?” Sounds off doesn’t it? Actually my uncle is the original owner of the company but not year he wants to retire and move out of the area. He’s been building the place up for over twenty years and I guess finally needs a break.” “He must be one hell of a guy to stick with something for that long.” So he’s about to fall into a shit ton of money, now I know why Katherine is interested. As horrible as that sounded even in her own head she had to admit that her friend did have a tendency of only dating the exceptionally wealthy or ambitious.
Chronicles Of Crystal 