Chapter 9 - Pass the Pudding Please ... Whoa! What an Outfit
The deep mahogany door, installed less than a week ago to replace the one that had been mercilessly blasted by the pirates, now loomed before him, waiting. Everything was set. He had the flower. The table was reserved. Delilah was outside waiting. All that remained was Amelia. He gazed at the door behind which the object of his affection lay.
It's now or never, old boy. The point of no return. Time to lay all your cards on the table. He shook his head in amusement. I'd say it's time to get rid of the tired clichés and find something more inventive, or at least something more original.
He lifted his hand and placed two successive raps on the heavy wooden door, while bringing the corsage he'd purchased behind his back, out of Amelia's line of sight.
A moment later the door opened, and Delbert forgot to breathe.
Amelia stood before him, looking less like the imposing Captain he'd fought side by side with and more like a Siren from the sea myths of old.
"Good evening, Doctor," she smiled, before breaking into a sly smile and adding, "I see you made it here without any noticeable mishaps."
"I did," he assured her, not noticing her small reference to his earlier lack of grace along the docks. He merely stood there, drinking in the beauty before him. As if to emphasize his unspoken compliment, a passing breeze from her starboard window caught the ivory silk of her blouse and ruffled the tapered cuffs that enveloped her wrists. The sleek v of the collar plunged midway down, remaining modest but leaving just enough to the imagination to make Doppler sweat. Her skirt, which reminded him of the deep violet hue of his favorite nebula, snugly hugged the flowing lines of her legs, tapering off just above her ankles. She had traded her heavy sailor's boots for a pair of simple white walking boots, which laced up rather intricately on the side. All in all, it was quite an intoxicating ensemble.
And it was by sheer luck that it matched the flower he had painstakingly decided upon.
"It's an iris ensata," he explained as he pulled it from behind his back. "A flying tiger as it's more commonly known."
Amelia was touched by the simple gesture. There was no way he could have known the last time anyone had given her flowers had been shortly after her graduation from the Academy upon her first commissioning. Her father had surprised her with Tarkonian lilies. It had meant so much to her. As it did now.
"It's beautiful," she breathed softly, reaching out a hand to caress the soft, rounded petals.
The pale purple that dominated the flower was streaked with bold veins of violet blue, and a splash of yellow radiated from the center.
It was one of the most gorgeous flowers she had ever seen, and she told him as much.
Delbert breathed a sigh of relief. "I'm so glad you like it. It took me forever to decide which one to get," he admitted. "This one was too yellow, that one too blue. I wanted it to be absolutely perfect for you."
The simple honesty told her more than his words could ever say, and it touched her heart.
"I love it." She leaned forward. "Would you pin it on me?"
Delbert glanced at her nervously. "Are you certain? I don't exactly have the best track record with precision ..."
She smiled. "I realize that. Nevertheless, I'd like you to pin it on." She patted the area above her left breast. "Over my heart, if you would."
Delbert brought his eyes to her swiftly, but her gaze remained steady. "Er, yes. Well then, shall we?" He cleared his throat and took the corsage.
His shaking hands, though slight, were still noticeable and
Amelia bit the inside of her lip to keep from smiling. It took two tries and one stifled curse after he accidentally inserted the pin in to his finger rather than the fabric, but he fastened it. And it looked perfect against the ivory of her blouse.
"You look lovely," he told her after stepping back to inspect his handiwork.
"And you look dashing. You should wear blue more often. It suits you."
The tips of his ears reddened. "I'll have to remember that." He offered an arm to her. "Are you ready to be off? I have dinner reservations at the Topus Garden."
"Topus Garden?" Her face lit up in a mixture of pleasure and surprise. "Their cuisine is legendary, as is the waiting list. However did you manage a table?" Amelia wanted to know.
"Oh, I called in a few favors here and there," he shrugged. He didn't bother to add that he'd promised three substitute lectures to a friend who taught at the Academy and also happened to be the brother-in-law of the Garden's owner.
"Amazing," she sighed. "I have long wanted to sample their
Montressorian eel cakes."
"They're marvelous," he promised. "And we'll have to make certain to save room for their Redoeon pudding. It's the stuff dreams are made of," he smiled.
"I can't wait." She took his arm and allowed him to escort her to his carriage, enjoying the comfortable weight of his hand upon hers.
***
Amelia and Doppler stood inside the small, yet comfortable lobby of Topus Garden while waiting to be to their seats. Doppler stole another glance out of the corner of his eye. The outfit really was gorgeous. He was surprised, pleasantly so, at her choice in eveningwear. He had never seen the captain in anything other than breeches before. It was... invigorating...no, no, he shook his head. That wasn't the word he was looking for, although she was that. He smiled.
Yes, definitely invigorating. But the outfit, it was...intoxicating.
His mind had gotten foggy the moment he had seen her in it. And it hadn't cleared since.
That wasn't necessarily a bed...BAD thing. He frowned. The slips were becoming a bit much. He wasn't certain how much longer he could keep from expressing them out loud. Not that he had done such a banner job so far. But Amelia had been rather forgiving. `
"Doctor, you're staring."
"Excuse me?" He looked away quickly.
"I said you were staring." Amelia smiled.
"Was I?" He had the good grace to blush. "I was just admiring your attire," he admitted slowly, deciding upon truth. It was less likely to result in injuries, he decided.
Amelia was shyly pleased. She wasn't quite certain how to respond. The Captain in her was more apt to take flattery with a measure of salt and give it no more thought. But Amelia was startled to find how much it pleased her to know Doppler was admiring her in that way. She thought about it a moment longer and decided to settle on a demure, "Thank you."
"Your table is ready, sir." The maitre'd gestured to the room.
"Ah wonderful!" Doppler offered an arm. "Shall we?"
Amelia slipped her arm through his and smiled. "Yes, let's."
***
As the evening progressed, Amelia couldn't remember ever having enjoyed someone's company so much. Doppler's stories were amusing, ranging from simple verbal mishaps at the university to far more embarrassing ones in front of colleagues during serious scientific discussion.
She would have thought he'd be hesitant about sharing such moments with her, embarrassed even, but he was quite candid with her.
She found the open honesty quite refreshing and a much-needed breath after the web of deceit that had been present on their recent voyage, courtesy of Silver and his crew.
"Doctor, have you ever considered a rubber band on the wrist," she found herself asking over a chilled glass of limoncella.
"A rubber band?"
"Yes," she smiled. "Then you could snap it every time you slipped up with something ... ah ... less than appropriate."
He considered it for a moment. "It could work," he allowed. "But I might -"
"Bruise your wrist from so much use?" she cut in with a sly grin.
"Yes, I could see where that could be a problem."
Doppler laughed. "Precisely. But I might say the same to you," he added with a pointed look. "Ever try to reign in that razor sharp wit?"
"I gave up long ago, I'm afraid." She gazed at him steadily.
He waited, trying to determine if she was toying with him. Her lips twitched and he realized she was.
"I see," he nodded. "It's just as well."
"Oh?"
"Yes. I think I've grown rather accustomed to it." He couldn't believe how comfortable he felt right now. The liberties he was taking in conversation with her ... a week ago, he wouldn't even have considered it. Maybe it was the wine? Or maybe it was her unspoken approval that let him feel so free. It was most likely a combination of both, he decided.
Amelia had been very encouraging thus far. The conversation, the silent looks ... the signs all seemed to be saying the same thing. He hoped to the cosmos that he was reading them correctly.
"How's your dessert?" she asked, pulling him away from his thoughts.
"Hmm? Oh, it delicious. Are you certain you don't want to order anything?"
"Quite. My meal was very satisfying." She eyed the mound of chocolate swirled before him. "But if you wouldn't mind, possibly I might -"
"Sample mine?" he finished for her. "With pleasure."
He dipped his spoon into the chocolate confection and swirled it around, coating the utensil before offering it to her. He smiled as her lips closed around the dessert and then spread into a delighted smile.
"Mmm," she murmured, opening her eyes. "That's heavenly. What did you say it is called?"
"Cosmos Crème Redoeon pudding. It's a secret recipe that's been handed down Montagnon's family for years. He's had so many offers to sell it that he quit keeping count." He laughed. "I'm glad you like it.
I had a feeling you would."
"An excellent choice," she agreed. "But then, so far, this evening has been beyond expectation." The light in her eyes matched the soft smile that graced her features.
Delbert was certain he had seen nothing lovelier in all his time amidst the cosmos. "I know it's exceeded mine," he admitted.
"Flattery will get you nowhere," she teased, her eyes dancing with laughter.
He blushed. "It wasn't my intention to be exsexsive, er, excessive in my praise."
His face reddened even more at the slip. Why was it whenever things started turning serious, he always had to make such a verbal error. Was it fate? Bad karma? He had been doing so well, so suave ... smooth. And then sex. It wasn't the only thing on his brain, but if he kept having slip-ups like that ... well she'd certainly think it was.
"Oh I didn't say I minded," she winked at him, glossing over his embarrassment. "Truly, I am flattered."
He dipped his head in a shy smile. What was it about this woman?
He watched as she proceeded to "sample" the rest of his dessert, contrary to her earlier comment about being full.
He smiled to himself. The evening had been perfect thus far. A lovely woman, exquisite cuisine and intelligent conversation, well maybe more on her part than his at first, but he was getting there. He thought about the grand finale he had planned. The Mirsoan Nebula was at full bloom tonight - a rare occasion and not a sight many had the chance to behold. He was going to surprise with a coveted view from his observatory, one of Montressor's best. He only hoped she would enjoy it as much as he.
"Shall we?" he inquired as she finished the last bite of the
Cosmos.
"There's more?"
"Only one more. But I think you'll enjoy it."
"What is it?"
He flashed a white smile. "Ah, I can't tell you that. It's a secret."
Her eyes narrowed in mock frustration. "I absolutely detest secrets."
He shrugged. "Too bad. I'm not telling. And there's nothing you can do to pry it from me."
Amelia arched an eyebrow and leaned in closer. "Nothing?"
Delbert swallowed ... hard. "Well, uh ..."
"I could order you to tell me."
"Yes, there's that." His words sounded a little strained.
Amelia's gaze trailed down to mouth. She moved even closer.
"Doctor?"
"Yyy ... yes?"
"You've got something," she brought a hand to the side of his mouth. "Right there," she finished, wiping it off the small dab of crème that had settled in the far right corner of his lower lip and pulling away with a smirk.
Doppler watched in silent disbelief as Amelia took her coat and made her way out of the restaurant. Her laughter floated back to him.
Quickly paying the bill and leaving a sizeable tip, he followed her out, still dazed by the encounter, but looking forward to what other surprises the night held in store.
To be continued ...
All right! Sorry for the long time between chapters. Real life caught up with me for a while and gave me a pretty good beating, but I'm back in action and ready to churn out major fluffness for everyone. Chapter 10 is currently being written, but it's slow going. Be patient with me. I haven't given up. The story IS rapidly coming to a close though. Next time around the grand finale to the big date.
The deep mahogany door, installed less than a week ago to replace the one that had been mercilessly blasted by the pirates, now loomed before him, waiting. Everything was set. He had the flower. The table was reserved. Delilah was outside waiting. All that remained was Amelia. He gazed at the door behind which the object of his affection lay.
It's now or never, old boy. The point of no return. Time to lay all your cards on the table. He shook his head in amusement. I'd say it's time to get rid of the tired clichés and find something more inventive, or at least something more original.
He lifted his hand and placed two successive raps on the heavy wooden door, while bringing the corsage he'd purchased behind his back, out of Amelia's line of sight.
A moment later the door opened, and Delbert forgot to breathe.
Amelia stood before him, looking less like the imposing Captain he'd fought side by side with and more like a Siren from the sea myths of old.
"Good evening, Doctor," she smiled, before breaking into a sly smile and adding, "I see you made it here without any noticeable mishaps."
"I did," he assured her, not noticing her small reference to his earlier lack of grace along the docks. He merely stood there, drinking in the beauty before him. As if to emphasize his unspoken compliment, a passing breeze from her starboard window caught the ivory silk of her blouse and ruffled the tapered cuffs that enveloped her wrists. The sleek v of the collar plunged midway down, remaining modest but leaving just enough to the imagination to make Doppler sweat. Her skirt, which reminded him of the deep violet hue of his favorite nebula, snugly hugged the flowing lines of her legs, tapering off just above her ankles. She had traded her heavy sailor's boots for a pair of simple white walking boots, which laced up rather intricately on the side. All in all, it was quite an intoxicating ensemble.
And it was by sheer luck that it matched the flower he had painstakingly decided upon.
"It's an iris ensata," he explained as he pulled it from behind his back. "A flying tiger as it's more commonly known."
Amelia was touched by the simple gesture. There was no way he could have known the last time anyone had given her flowers had been shortly after her graduation from the Academy upon her first commissioning. Her father had surprised her with Tarkonian lilies. It had meant so much to her. As it did now.
"It's beautiful," she breathed softly, reaching out a hand to caress the soft, rounded petals.
The pale purple that dominated the flower was streaked with bold veins of violet blue, and a splash of yellow radiated from the center.
It was one of the most gorgeous flowers she had ever seen, and she told him as much.
Delbert breathed a sigh of relief. "I'm so glad you like it. It took me forever to decide which one to get," he admitted. "This one was too yellow, that one too blue. I wanted it to be absolutely perfect for you."
The simple honesty told her more than his words could ever say, and it touched her heart.
"I love it." She leaned forward. "Would you pin it on me?"
Delbert glanced at her nervously. "Are you certain? I don't exactly have the best track record with precision ..."
She smiled. "I realize that. Nevertheless, I'd like you to pin it on." She patted the area above her left breast. "Over my heart, if you would."
Delbert brought his eyes to her swiftly, but her gaze remained steady. "Er, yes. Well then, shall we?" He cleared his throat and took the corsage.
His shaking hands, though slight, were still noticeable and
Amelia bit the inside of her lip to keep from smiling. It took two tries and one stifled curse after he accidentally inserted the pin in to his finger rather than the fabric, but he fastened it. And it looked perfect against the ivory of her blouse.
"You look lovely," he told her after stepping back to inspect his handiwork.
"And you look dashing. You should wear blue more often. It suits you."
The tips of his ears reddened. "I'll have to remember that." He offered an arm to her. "Are you ready to be off? I have dinner reservations at the Topus Garden."
"Topus Garden?" Her face lit up in a mixture of pleasure and surprise. "Their cuisine is legendary, as is the waiting list. However did you manage a table?" Amelia wanted to know.
"Oh, I called in a few favors here and there," he shrugged. He didn't bother to add that he'd promised three substitute lectures to a friend who taught at the Academy and also happened to be the brother-in-law of the Garden's owner.
"Amazing," she sighed. "I have long wanted to sample their
Montressorian eel cakes."
"They're marvelous," he promised. "And we'll have to make certain to save room for their Redoeon pudding. It's the stuff dreams are made of," he smiled.
"I can't wait." She took his arm and allowed him to escort her to his carriage, enjoying the comfortable weight of his hand upon hers.
***
Amelia and Doppler stood inside the small, yet comfortable lobby of Topus Garden while waiting to be to their seats. Doppler stole another glance out of the corner of his eye. The outfit really was gorgeous. He was surprised, pleasantly so, at her choice in eveningwear. He had never seen the captain in anything other than breeches before. It was... invigorating...no, no, he shook his head. That wasn't the word he was looking for, although she was that. He smiled.
Yes, definitely invigorating. But the outfit, it was...intoxicating.
His mind had gotten foggy the moment he had seen her in it. And it hadn't cleared since.
That wasn't necessarily a bed...BAD thing. He frowned. The slips were becoming a bit much. He wasn't certain how much longer he could keep from expressing them out loud. Not that he had done such a banner job so far. But Amelia had been rather forgiving. `
"Doctor, you're staring."
"Excuse me?" He looked away quickly.
"I said you were staring." Amelia smiled.
"Was I?" He had the good grace to blush. "I was just admiring your attire," he admitted slowly, deciding upon truth. It was less likely to result in injuries, he decided.
Amelia was shyly pleased. She wasn't quite certain how to respond. The Captain in her was more apt to take flattery with a measure of salt and give it no more thought. But Amelia was startled to find how much it pleased her to know Doppler was admiring her in that way. She thought about it a moment longer and decided to settle on a demure, "Thank you."
"Your table is ready, sir." The maitre'd gestured to the room.
"Ah wonderful!" Doppler offered an arm. "Shall we?"
Amelia slipped her arm through his and smiled. "Yes, let's."
***
As the evening progressed, Amelia couldn't remember ever having enjoyed someone's company so much. Doppler's stories were amusing, ranging from simple verbal mishaps at the university to far more embarrassing ones in front of colleagues during serious scientific discussion.
She would have thought he'd be hesitant about sharing such moments with her, embarrassed even, but he was quite candid with her.
She found the open honesty quite refreshing and a much-needed breath after the web of deceit that had been present on their recent voyage, courtesy of Silver and his crew.
"Doctor, have you ever considered a rubber band on the wrist," she found herself asking over a chilled glass of limoncella.
"A rubber band?"
"Yes," she smiled. "Then you could snap it every time you slipped up with something ... ah ... less than appropriate."
He considered it for a moment. "It could work," he allowed. "But I might -"
"Bruise your wrist from so much use?" she cut in with a sly grin.
"Yes, I could see where that could be a problem."
Doppler laughed. "Precisely. But I might say the same to you," he added with a pointed look. "Ever try to reign in that razor sharp wit?"
"I gave up long ago, I'm afraid." She gazed at him steadily.
He waited, trying to determine if she was toying with him. Her lips twitched and he realized she was.
"I see," he nodded. "It's just as well."
"Oh?"
"Yes. I think I've grown rather accustomed to it." He couldn't believe how comfortable he felt right now. The liberties he was taking in conversation with her ... a week ago, he wouldn't even have considered it. Maybe it was the wine? Or maybe it was her unspoken approval that let him feel so free. It was most likely a combination of both, he decided.
Amelia had been very encouraging thus far. The conversation, the silent looks ... the signs all seemed to be saying the same thing. He hoped to the cosmos that he was reading them correctly.
"How's your dessert?" she asked, pulling him away from his thoughts.
"Hmm? Oh, it delicious. Are you certain you don't want to order anything?"
"Quite. My meal was very satisfying." She eyed the mound of chocolate swirled before him. "But if you wouldn't mind, possibly I might -"
"Sample mine?" he finished for her. "With pleasure."
He dipped his spoon into the chocolate confection and swirled it around, coating the utensil before offering it to her. He smiled as her lips closed around the dessert and then spread into a delighted smile.
"Mmm," she murmured, opening her eyes. "That's heavenly. What did you say it is called?"
"Cosmos Crème Redoeon pudding. It's a secret recipe that's been handed down Montagnon's family for years. He's had so many offers to sell it that he quit keeping count." He laughed. "I'm glad you like it.
I had a feeling you would."
"An excellent choice," she agreed. "But then, so far, this evening has been beyond expectation." The light in her eyes matched the soft smile that graced her features.
Delbert was certain he had seen nothing lovelier in all his time amidst the cosmos. "I know it's exceeded mine," he admitted.
"Flattery will get you nowhere," she teased, her eyes dancing with laughter.
He blushed. "It wasn't my intention to be exsexsive, er, excessive in my praise."
His face reddened even more at the slip. Why was it whenever things started turning serious, he always had to make such a verbal error. Was it fate? Bad karma? He had been doing so well, so suave ... smooth. And then sex. It wasn't the only thing on his brain, but if he kept having slip-ups like that ... well she'd certainly think it was.
"Oh I didn't say I minded," she winked at him, glossing over his embarrassment. "Truly, I am flattered."
He dipped his head in a shy smile. What was it about this woman?
He watched as she proceeded to "sample" the rest of his dessert, contrary to her earlier comment about being full.
He smiled to himself. The evening had been perfect thus far. A lovely woman, exquisite cuisine and intelligent conversation, well maybe more on her part than his at first, but he was getting there. He thought about the grand finale he had planned. The Mirsoan Nebula was at full bloom tonight - a rare occasion and not a sight many had the chance to behold. He was going to surprise with a coveted view from his observatory, one of Montressor's best. He only hoped she would enjoy it as much as he.
"Shall we?" he inquired as she finished the last bite of the
Cosmos.
"There's more?"
"Only one more. But I think you'll enjoy it."
"What is it?"
He flashed a white smile. "Ah, I can't tell you that. It's a secret."
Her eyes narrowed in mock frustration. "I absolutely detest secrets."
He shrugged. "Too bad. I'm not telling. And there's nothing you can do to pry it from me."
Amelia arched an eyebrow and leaned in closer. "Nothing?"
Delbert swallowed ... hard. "Well, uh ..."
"I could order you to tell me."
"Yes, there's that." His words sounded a little strained.
Amelia's gaze trailed down to mouth. She moved even closer.
"Doctor?"
"Yyy ... yes?"
"You've got something," she brought a hand to the side of his mouth. "Right there," she finished, wiping it off the small dab of crème that had settled in the far right corner of his lower lip and pulling away with a smirk.
Doppler watched in silent disbelief as Amelia took her coat and made her way out of the restaurant. Her laughter floated back to him.
Quickly paying the bill and leaving a sizeable tip, he followed her out, still dazed by the encounter, but looking forward to what other surprises the night held in store.
To be continued ...
All right! Sorry for the long time between chapters. Real life caught up with me for a while and gave me a pretty good beating, but I'm back in action and ready to churn out major fluffness for everyone. Chapter 10 is currently being written, but it's slow going. Be patient with me. I haven't given up. The story IS rapidly coming to a close though. Next time around the grand finale to the big date.