Chapter 11: The Adventure Begins
There is only one happiness in life, to love and be loved.
- George Sand
Marina's Diary 3rd of November 2016
I can't believe this, so hard to believe, I think I might be dreaming. If I am dreaming, I don't ever want to wake up, not ever. Not only have I made friends with those who have socially accepted me, but I'm dating the most beautiful girl who I've ever met. The day I saw Laura with my own two eyes, I never thought someone could be so beautiful. Only when getting to know her personally, did I discover her inner beauty. Her visage always warmed my blood, and when she exchanged words and friendly expressions with me, my feet were off the ground as if I was levitating.
Every time Laura and I kissed, I sensed intimacy and we were both in our own little space, our own little bubble. With our eyes closed and tasting each other's saliva, I was on my own little trip with her, where we experienced such wonders of the world; and even created our own perfect world together.
Around campus we walked together, not only side by side like we usually did, but this time; we held hands. Students who we passed became our audience, and we did feel like the center of attention, I was a little unease about it; but at the same time flattered by the attention. I've heard and read about the discrimination many lesbians, homosexuals and bisexuals endure, but I was not going to let that stop me from loving Laura.
Whatever those haters may say, think or even do, this was something I'm going to have to prepare myself for. It's a mean cruel world we live in, where some people are going to want to run you into the ground until you submit and give in, but I must be strong and stand up to that sort of torment. Laura is my girl, and I'm not going to let nobody or nothing stand in my way of our romance.
Just because Laura and I were going out, doesn't mean that she doesn't want space from me time to time, which I was willing to give her. In order to give her the space that she required and desired, I decided to transfer myself to an IT course, which was the same course Kobe was on.
Laura and I would walk to campus together, and would part ways when we needed to go in separate directions to attend our class. Sometimes we would meet each other for lunch where we joined with her friends and ate together.
Every time we parted ways we would always kiss, which would just be one long kiss and a slight touching of hands. A kiss from Laura was the spur and confidence booster I needed to start my day, and focus on my course work. Even in class I would dream about Laura and would look forward to seeing her again, but like Sabrina said, „Sometimes you need alone time to revitalize, and get yourself in the mood for love."
Laura's Diary 3rd of November 2016
Recently I made a big decision in life, I decided to begin a new relationship with someone of the same sex. I made my decision based on feeling rather than status or protection, but that feeling was not desperation (to be in a relationship), it was compassion.
As the relationship with Marina began, so did my case study, which I appropriately named „Project Werther". I would be closely monitoring and assessing Marina's behavior, reactions and her development in the hopes of rehabilitating her.
In regards to how the first few days went being in a new relationship, I was expecting big changes with how people around campus would judge me. I was expecting to lose some of my Facebook friends (not that it mattered to me too much) who could be homophobic or against homosexuality, but nonetheless, I wasn't subjected to any abuse at campus or on social media. Many of the other students would gawk at us or either have neutral or even droll reactions, and would even whisper to each other. Overall, being surrounded by those that knew of my new relationship, didn't concern me much. It seemed I was still going to maintain my reputation and popularity with other students regardless, and all I had to do was carry my routine as normal. As for the perverted male students that liked lesbian action, I wouldn't care if I was giving them the satisfaction of kissing my girlfriend in front of them.
Project Werther: From Loner to Socialite
Ever since the day I met Marina, she didn't seem to be a very talkative person. I would have assumed this to be from her lack of social interaction or insecurity, but without being Marina herself, I wouldn't know.
When we did have our first interaction with each other in the flesh, she didn't seem to want to talk about herself as much. Despite I was the one who she wanted to be best friends with, she was nervous and half reluctant to exchange words with, so I did most of the talking. She did of course smile at me and was clearly relishing in my company with me by her side.
It was obviously via online communication did she display signs of bravado when she tried to communicate with me. In front of the monitor and typing away at a keyboard, did she have the courage and the energy to be more communicative and social.
When we had more meetings, Marina would improve her eye contact, and not speak so softly; but she still wasn't the one to lead a conversation. She became more confident and comfortable enough to express herself freely, and more open about her bizarre yet fascinating interests.
In time, my social interactions with Marina would become more humorous and mutual, and we would start talking to each other like friends; who just got proper acquainted with each other. Both of us took it in turns to speak and move on to different subjects, when it seemed it was necessary, and we both were engaged with each other's company.
When Marina would be introduced to my other friends, she would revert back to her shy self, as it seemed she was used to talking to me. This was mainly because she trusted me, and that her trust in other people was not quite there yet. That was something I at least wanted to do for her, so that she can make acquaintanceships with other people and not always depend on me to keep her company. There were difficulties trying to get Marina to fit in with my other friends, as they judged her and would shun her. Although I could not get my friends to warm up to her so soon, I could at least get them to accept that she's around, and that I invited her to join in our social group.
In our social groups, Marina did remain to be the unsocial member of the group, which I knew was going to take time until she felt confident and willing to take part in the conversation. On occasions, Marina did become the main focus of the group when a question was being asked, and she would willingly answer as honestly and openly as possible. There were even times when she cut in on the topic and gave her own thoughts and opinions, which was an indication that she had learnt social skills, and had became a social member of our group; and not a stranger.
Marina's Diary 10th of November 2016
After listening to the two Genesis albums I borrowed from Caroline, I decided that it was time to return them, which prompted me to pay her a visit. I didn't communicate to Caroline online to let her know I was coming, I just turned up at her doorstep and rung the doorbell.
She would answer the door and notice me straightaway, and was thrilled to see me again, so much; she took me in her arms and squeezed me hard. It triggered the happy memory of being embraced by her for the first time, and being invited into her warm home, and enjoying her hospitality.
The first topic that Caroline would bring up was her daughter's new relationship, and how happy she is for her daughter. It seemed that Caroline trusted me with her daughter, and was also happy for me having my first real romantic relationship.
When I gave Caroline the two CDs she leant me, she asked me what I thought of them. I gave her my short review on the albums, and how they had a great first impression on me. Caroline was delighted to hear my thoughts on Genesis, she even proposed the idea of listening to some Genesis with her, which I gleefully accepted.
Once we were in the lounge, Caroline asked me if I ate anything, which I said I didn't; so she offered to make me something small like a sandwich, which I accepted. When she came back with a plate of fruit, tuna fish sandwiches and a glass of milk, we then proceeded to listen to some Genesis.
The first album Caroline would put on was „Duke", and as the album was playing, Caroline begun to make copies of the albums for me to keep. I sat quietly and comfortably listening to the instrumental opening by both Collins, Rutherford and Banks, and was captivated by their instrumental nuance.
One part of the album I would never forget was when the track „Alone Tonight" played, and I remember my eyes starting to water, and feeling something in my throat when I listened to the poignant lyrics sung by Collins. When it got the chorus of the song, I broke down and cried in front of Caroline, who sat down next to me and took me in her arms. She buried my face in her chest and cried with me, and throughout the song we comforted each other over a deeply emotional song, which we could both relate to.
After the song ended, Caroline took out a tissue and wiped the tears dry from my eyes, and then would wipe her own tears. She admitted to me that she often suffered from loneliness, due to her not having Laura around and being busy with work. Many nights she would cry herself to sleep, knowing she was alone in the house with no one to talk to. She would confess to me that she was grateful I came to visit and keep her company.
When the album had finished she would then put on „Abacab" which begun with a track that Caroline would dance to. I would watch her dance, which didn't embarrass me, but instead amused me to see her try to dance. She even tried to get me to join in by taking my hands and standing me up. I would humor her and dance with her, but I just looked at my feet, unsure if I was moving my feet accordingly to the beat. Caroline would instruct me to not look at my feet, but look at the horizon, which I did and the two of us danced together. Initially I was unsure and insecure with how I was dancing, but then I got more into it and danced however I felt like, which was precisely what defines the joy of dancing. After dancing to the first track, we both relaxed and listened to the rest of the album together. We both remained silent as we just sat there together in harmony, and listened to the music.
After the end of the album, we both felt really tired, and since it was late and it was raining outside; Caroline offered me Laura's bedroom for the night. I humbly accepted, and Caroline showed me to Laura's bedroom, which looked untouched when I walked in. Laura's bedroom was full of luxuries, ornaments and posters, which embodied her personality; and enriched the life she had lived and experienced throughout her life so far.
Caroline would wrap her arms around me and kiss me goodnight, which made me feel like I had a mother, who was still among the living. Once again I enjoyed being embraced and kissed by Laura's poor lonely mother, whom I grew enormous affection for, and wanted to be there for. This realization enforced a massive burden of guilt on me, when Caroline was on my hit list if I was to unleash the curse I had planned for Laura. From that moment on, there was no way I could dream of giving this fragile, emotional middle aged lady damnation; she deserves as much happiness and love as I do.
When Caroline left the room, I would use the ensuite bathroom to brush my teeth and get ready for bed. I found Laura's queen-size bed really comfy and pliable, with silk sheets and a velvet duvet with pillows. I wished that Laura was in the bed with me, but I was able to fall asleep in the bed regardless, musing about the wonderful night I had with whom I like to consider; my surrogate mother.
Marina's Essay: Genesis, And Then There Was Phil
„A Trick of the Tail" and „Wind & Wuthering" were the first ever Genesis albums I ever listened to, but weren't the albums that got me into Phil Collins. This part of my essay is about why Phil Collins became so appreciated by those that became his fans, and how I became one of them.
I did skip the album „And Then There Were Three" and listened to the two abulms that came afterwards, but at a later date I would listen to the album. I would consider that album to be another attempt to retain the old style of the band. They would try to move away from the progressive rock movement, and do more concise songs in order to make the band a little more mainstream.
Banks would make use of the Yamaha keyboard and Rutherford would use a bottleneck guitar, which gave the album its unique sounds, and made them key contributors to band.
The song I remember most from that album is „Follow You Follow Me", which is the last track on the album, and another song that reminded me of Laura with its lyrics. That song is the most pop sounding track, and what I would consider, marks the turning point for the band's style in music.
The following album „Duke" I would define the album, when Phil Collins' vocal ability become more apparent and noticed. It goes to show in the track „Man Of Our Times", which in my opinion, demonstrates Phil Collins' powerful vocal abilities.
„Turn It On Again" is a catchy track and a great intro with its soft tapping of the syllables by Collins, fast plucking of the guitar by Rutherford and the keyboard notes being hit hard by Banks. This was when Phil Collins sounded so comfortable singing and where Banks and Rutherford worked their magic.
„Alone Tonight" would always remind me of the time I was round Caroline's house, and crying in her arms, I don't think I've ever cried my eyes out that much in my life. Listening to the lyrics with my undivided attention, I could feel the pain Phil Collins felt when he sung that song. Later on, I would discover that Phil Collins was going through a divorce at the time the album was being recorded. It was obvious that all the raw emotional pain Phil was going through was put into that one song, and I thank him for giving me the tears I wish I could shed with him.
The last two tracks on the album „Duke's Travels" and „Duke's End" are both great instrumental pieces, which identify the pop-rock genre. Both tracks are a great mixture of the guitar, keyboard and drums, which blend into a nice cocktail. I love the aggressive keyboard playing by Tony Banks and howling of Mike Rutherford's guitar, which synthesize with the drums and keyboard. I even like the how the vocals of Phil Collins briefly intrudes on the track with a reprisal of "Guide Vocal".
The album „Abacab" is the first real pop album or pop-rock if I must say so, but compared to their previous albums, this was the beginning of the band's entry into mainstream.
The first track „Abacab" has a catchy beat, with a nice heavy, electronic sound, which was how I acquired my desire to dance.
The second track „No Reply At All" sounded different compared to other previous Genesis tracks, which was the first time I heard a brass instrument being played in a Genesis song.
The fifth track „Dodo/Lurker" was another track that had a heavy use of an electronic style, but with more use of lyrics.
The sixth track „Who Dunnit" was another electronic track, but this time with repetition with its lyrics, which made it another track to dance to. Many fans consider it the worst Genesis song ever, but I find it a catchy beat, but will admit it's cathcy in a cheesy way.
The other tracks were designed to be marketed to a more mainstream audience, and to my comprehension and understanding, it was the direction Phil Collins and his bandmates wanted to embark on. Many fans would grow into this new era of Genesis, while others would still be loyal to Peter Gabriel's take on the band. As for me, I never had the chance to listen to his era yet, I was already fixated on Phil Collins.
Soon I would always associate the name „Genesis" with Phil Collins, as my reasons will be explained in the following albums, which he worked on before parting from the band.
Marina's Diary 15th of November 2016
My transfer to IT, and adaption to a new course was easier than I expected. Maybe it's because I already had an extensive knowledge of computers, or I enjoyed the topic more. I didn't feel anymore or less lonely, mainly because I saw Laura at lunchtime and I was becoming friends with one of her friends, Kobe. Often he would sit next to me and refresh my memory of what was taught to us so far, or just to talk about IT related subjects. I didn't mind his company at first, but eventually he grew on me, and I started to accept him more as a friend.
I guess my original distaste and wariness for him was because he had a crush on Laura, and probably still does. He did seem to take it well that Laura and I were officially dating, and I could appreciate him coming to terms with that, and not making any moves on my girl. Of course I was aware that Tyler never trusted him, but I know how paranoid and protective Tyler was at the time he was dating Laura.
Later on that day Kobe invited me to play videogames with him and Gustavo, which I agreed, and we would meet after class was over.
When class was over, both Marina and Kobe walked back to his, where Kobe said he needed to pick up a few things before they meet up with Gustavo, and they would both go to the apartment where Laura, Olivia and Isabel resided; as he had a key.
Once Marina and Kobe were at the apartment, the three set up the video game console and got some snacks prepared. Both Kobe and Gustavo played Mortal Kombat X and cracked up a lot of jokes while playing, which to Marina didn't make much sense. Kobe and Gustavo's use of vocabulary and slang did not coincide with Marina's perception and comprehension of the English language. Marina would remain quiet and antisocial, and would feign a smile, just to show she was engaged with the two.
When Kobe and Gustavo has finished a match, and Gustavo was playing around with the options, and making other preperations for the next level, Kobe got out his private kit. Inside Kobe's small leather case, arose a strong overpowering aroma, which was as strong if not stronger than some of the herbs, minerals and substances Marina had in her inventory back at her dorm.
Kobe looked at Marina who noticed her staring at him grinding marijuana in a grinder.
„You do weed?" asked Kobe, frowning at Marina curiously.
„Weed?" questioned Marina, not familiar with the stuff.
„Marijuana, grass, skunk, ganja?" asked Kobe, going through the various names for marijuana.
„No," answered Marina still frowning.
„Well, consider this your first time," said Kobe, as he had the weed sprinkled on the paper, licked the paper and rolled a joint. Once the joint was neatly rolled up, he lit the joint, took a toke of the long joint and slowly exhaled the thick smoke out of his lungs. His facial expression changed, and he was expressing a smirk. After a short pause, he drew his face to Marina, still with a smirk on his face; and held out his hand with the joint in his hand.
„Try this, it's good," insisted Kobe with the joint pointing upwards in the air.
Marina hesitated as she slowly took the joint from Kobe's hand and dubiously wrapped her lips on the butt end of the joint. She took a quick inhale and blew the smoke out of her mouth with Kobe watching her have her first toke.
„Marina, you're not doing it right," hinted Kobe.
„What do you mean?" baffled Marina.
„You need to take it into your lungs," implied Kobe „Here give me the joint to Gus and he will show you."
Marina gave the joint to Gustavo who took the joint and took a long toke. He held it in for about four seconds before expelling the smoke out in one long puff, and his face puckered. He handed the joint back to Kobe with his eyes closed.
„Like that you see, now… try again," incited Kobe, handing the joint back to Marina. Marina again brought the joint to her lips, took a long inhale with the lit end lighting up bright. „Good girl, let it into your lungs," instructed Kobe. Marina finished inhaling and took the joint from her lips, „Now hold it, hold it." Marina then suddenly choked and spluttered as the smoke spewed out of her mouth like a chimney.
„Oh dear, the poor girl's choking," joked Gustavo eyeing Marina with amusement.
„Quickly drink some beer," advised Kobe, placing a bottle of beer to her lips and pouring it down her throat, which moistened her sore throat. Marina could almost feel as if she had a hole in her throat, because the smoke burnt her throat that bad.
„Feeling better Marina?" asked Kobe, slapping her back repeatedly, "We had that feeling before, but at least the smoke went into your lungs this time."
„My god that was such an experience," reacted Marina catching her breath and feeling the strong effects of marijuana.
„Well it's only just beginning, the party has barely started," mentioned Kobe, taking the joint from Marina's hand.
„Kobe, be a gentleman and roll the lady up her own joint," scolded Gustavo. Kobe begun to roll up a joint for Marina, who waited eagerly and patiently.
Once a joint has been rolled for Marina, Kobe lit it for her and Marina took another long inhale of the joint, and held it in for 4 seconds. Slowly she expelled the smoke without choking. The smoke left her lips in one long stream, and in response both Kobe and Gustavo clapped and whistled.
„Well done girl, bravo," applauded Gustavo.
„You're the bitch Marina," praised Kobe, still clapping.
„Oh I feel so… strange," said Marina whose face slowly scrunched up and she was smiling and begun to laugh.
„That's the power of weed," implied Gustavo who had an unlit joint in his hand and proceeded to light it.
Marina could no longer feel her legs and she started to feel light headed and completely relaxed. She continued to take regular tokes of her joint, without choking and eventually got used to smoking. After a couple more tokes, her body went numb and her senses became more acute, making time go by very slowly; and feeling sensations that were pleasurable and carnal. She would receive communication from Kobe and Gustavo, and she would respond really slowly, which gave the impression that the marijuana took effect. Both Kobe and Gustavo smiled and snickered in amusement, ridiculing the state she was in. She would have her eyes closed and would commence laughing irregularly and emphatically, which further entertained Kobe and Gustavo, who weren't as stoned.
„Oh she's tripping," remarked Gustavo who laughed too.
„What's it like to kiss Laura?" asked Kobe inquisitively.
„Ohhh… it's epic… like a trip to paradise, the threshold to paradise is through her lips. Whenever I kiss her, I want to be in her… oh Laura devour me," beseeched Marina with her head laid back on the couch.
In response there was a burst of laughter as Kobe mocked, „Oh she's totally trippin." Kobe slapped his hand onto Marina's uncovered kneecap and coaxed, „You keep tripping darling, Gustavo and I will look after you."
„Thank you," responded Marina slowly and languidly.
Suddenly the lock for the front door clicked loudly and opened with Olivia, Isabel and Laura walking through with groceries in their arms.
„Hey guys, we brought beer and nachos," announced Isabel without going into the lounge to see her boyfriend.
„You two better not be smoking weed again," disapproved Olivia from the kitchen.
„Kobe, I hope you're not smoking weed again because we will…" admonished Laura walking into the lounge and noticed Marina on the couch between Kobe and Gustavo, completely stiff and motionless. „MARINA," cried out Laura, running over to Marina slumped on the couch looking unwell. Laura placed her hands on Marina's cheeks and fretted, „Marina are you okay baby? It's me Laura."
„L-au-ra," faltered Marina.
„Yes baby it's me, what happened?" concerned Laura, looking scared and worried.
„I'm… going to be sick," heeded Marina.
„QUICK, GET HER TO THE TOILET," yelled Laura, as Olivia took one of Marina's arms and Laura took the other. They carried her to the toilet where she groaned on the way.
Once in the toilet, Laura held Marina over the toilet to barf, which was in one big gush of thick light-brown vomit. Laura knelt beside Marina and supported her over the toilet. continuing to throw up, but in short acts of heaving until nothing but bile came out of her. Laura would rub Marina's back in long circular motions until Olivia came in with a glass of water.
„Here, drink this Marina, rinse your mouth," implored Laura, resting the rim of the glass on Marina's bottom teeth. Laura tilted the water down Marina's gullet, which dripped out of the side of her mouth, but was able to ingest some of it. Marina spat out the rest she couldn't drink into the toilet to rinse her mouth of acidy lumpy vomit.
„Feeling better now?" asked Laura compassionately, and Marina nodded in response, "Good, I think we need to get you in bed."
Laura and Olivia carried Marina, who was still unable to use her own legs, into Laura's bedroom and laid her down on her bed. Marina was laying on her back as Laura lay beside her while Olivia massaged her feet.
„Marina, can you open your eyes?" asked Laura, stroking Marina's face.
„Laura is that you?" asked Marina.
„Yes Marina it's me," confirmed Laura.
„I can hear you, but I can't see you," acknowledged Marina.
„I know, are you able to open up your eyes?" asked Laura.
„No I can't, I think I might be blind… oh Laura I'm sorry, I'm so sorry," cried Marina with tears emerging.
„No Marina, it's okay, you're going to be all right.. just tell me, did you do weed with Kobe and Gus?" questioned Laura while stroking Marina's hair.
„I did, I'm sorry I didn't know this would happen," wept Marina.
„No no Marina, don't be sorry, you didn't know the effects it would have, besides I tried it once," revealed Laura.
„You mean smoked it?" wondered Marina.
„No Marina, I tried one of Gus' cakes which had weed in it, which I was unaware of; and I had almost the same outcome," disclosed Laura and the two laughed.
„What's going on with my feet," asked Marina feeling, ticklish as she gave a wide smile.
Laura turned her head to look at Olivia still massaging Marina's naked feet. She was stroking the bridge of her foot and working her hand up to her shin. Olivia noticed that Laura was watching her stroking Marina's feet, and brought her finger to her lips and signaled Laura to keep quiet about who was touching her feet.
„Just thought you could do with a foot massage," suggested Laura, looking back at Marina's smiling face feeling the sensual pleasure.
„Laura, that feels so good, I'm feeling better already," praised Marina.
„I think we need you to lie on your side now, it will help you recover faster," recommended Laura, flipping Marina to her side and lay facing her.
„Laura I still can't open my eyes," panicked Marina.
„You will baby, just open them when you can, I can wait all night," cajoled Laura stroking Marina's temple with her fingernails, which tickled Marina and sent sensual surges from the roots of her hair and down the back her neck.
„I want to see you Laura, I want to see your beautiful face again," said Marina enthusiastically and lovingly, which made Laura smile.
„You will, I promise, I want to see your beautiful blue eyes again," said Laura, continuing to stroke Marina's temple.
„You will, I promise, just promise me you wont fall asleep," requested Marina.
„I promise," promised Laura sincerely.
„Do you think you could kiss me?" asked Marina.
„Sure, with pleasure," agreed Laura, moving closer to Marina and placed a long kiss on her lips.
Laura kept her head in close proximity with Marina's. She watched and waited patiently for Marina to open her eyes. What seemed like an hour of waiting, Marina suddenly shot her eyes open and saw Laura's pending and patient face smiling at her. With two pairs of eyes gazing into each other, they raised a smile on their faces, and expressed deep emotion and love for each other.
„Laura," whispered Marina.
„Marina," whispered Laura.
The two then kissed for relief and for comfort, knowing that the ordeal was over and they were together alone.
After Marina had taken some time to recover from her paralysis from THC, she was able to sit herself up onto Laura's bed. Marina noticed that it was dark outside, and that it was almost dinnertime. Gustavo came in with a tray of food and served Laura her food, which was a sandwich and water, then he served Marina her food.
„Here we are Marina, orange slices and sugar water, just what you need for your recovery," offered Gustavo, placing the sugar water on the bedside table and the plate in front of Marina's crossed legs.
„Thank you Gustavo," responded Marina.
„Oh please, you can call me Gus, everyone does," permitted Gustavo.
„Okay Gus," complied Marina.
„Take it easy girl, you just had too much THC in you, need to even it out with sugar," quipped Gustavo which, made Marina laugh with Laura laughing too. „Have fun girls, no bonking in the night," bantered Gustavo, leaving the room with Marina and Laura bursting into laughter. Laura and Marina tucked into their food and would have a small chat while they ate their small portioned dinner.
When they had finished their food, Laura offered to take the plates back into the kitchen and would get Marina a refill. Laura eventually came back with a refill and handed it to Marina. She then grabbed her laptop from her desk, and sat next to Marina on the bed. Opening her laptop, Laura opened up her internet browser and googled in a local spa and entered the main page.
„You see this Marina, this is where we'll be going at the end of the week, have you ever been to a spa?" asked Laura, looking at Marina who was looking back at her.
„No," answered Marina, shaking her head but looking curious and eager to know.
„Well it's a place where you can relax and feel good, it's therapeutic as well as rejuvenating, you'll love it. There'll be a sauna, jacuzzi, and a swimming pool. If we get hungry or thirsty, there'll be a bar where we can get something to eat and drink, and not to mention; I'll be booking us a massage," divulged Laura, trying to sell the fun proposal to her lover. Laura looked at Marina looking down at the mattress as Laura suspected, „You don't look that excited do you?"
Marina looked up at Laura and deflected, „No no I'm excited, I was just thinking."
Laura placed her hand on Marina's chin and inquired, „Thinking about what?"
„Thinking about how our night at the spa will turn out," replied Marina, "I have something in mind!"
Laura brushed her finger over the bridge of Marina's nose and said, „You're so full of surprises, you know that don't you?" Marina nodded and smiled without responding and Laura tilted her head and wondered, „Are you going to tell me what you had in mind?"
„It's a surprise!" declared Marina with a guilty smile on her face.
Laura then swung her leg over Marina's to face her directly, moving her face closer to hers, hummed for an answer and pressed, „Tell me, I hate surprises."
„Well you're getting warmer," hinted Marina as she prepared herself to kiss Laura.
Before their lips could touch, Laura's phone vibrated and Laura turned her head to see it light up. Laura grabbed it and noticed that it was her mum calling.
„I need to take this, it's my mum," said Laura.
„I understand, I'm going to brush my teeth," said Marina, getting off the bed and walking out of the bedroom.
When Marina had brushed her teeth and noticed Laura was now in the hallway talking to her mum on her phone, she caught a glimpse of Laura looking up at her and smiling. Marina would let herself back into Laura's bedroom, and help herself to Laura's laptop, which had not locked itself. She would browse the website for the spa, and notice that a DJ was available, who will be playing music by the pool. Then came the idea about a request for the DJ to play a piece of music of her choice to make the night romantic and enchanting.
Laura eventually entered her bedroom where she found Marina to be sitting on her bed and browsing on her laptop.
„Marina, who said you could use my laptop?" reproved Laura in a whimsy way.
„I was only looking at the website, I wanted to know more about the spa we'll be visiting," explained Marina.
Laura skipped over to Marina, threw herself on the bed and acknowledged, „That's okay, I was talking to my mum and she told me about your visit."
„I know, I should have informed her I was coming, I…" apologized Marina but her words were cut.
„No no, I wanted to thank you for keeping my mum company, she gets awfully lonely sometimes; especially since I moved out," expressed Laura her gratitude.
„I love her hospitality, and I appreciate that she gave me your room for the night," admitted Marina.
„How did you like my bed?" asked Laura.
„Very comfy, but I wanted you in bed with me," revealed Marina.
Laura laughed and said, „I'm going to brush my teeth, but in the meantime, have a look at massages and let me know which one."
„Sure, I'll have a look," affirmed Marina.
Laura smiled before she got off the bed and exited the room to brush her teeth, leaving Marina to have a look at the massages. When Laura got back, Marina confirmed which massage she wanted, and Laura decided to go with the same massage. They both sent an email with their choice of a massage, the time and included Marina's special request for the DJ.
Once the email had been sent, they did the the thing they enjoyed most about ending the day together, they retired to bed. They got changed, climbed in and snuggled close to each other. When the light was off, they kissed each other goodnight, and shortly afterwards; they fell asleep.
On a Friday evening they went to the spa together, which was located near the outskirts of town. Once they were changed into their bathrobes, they enjoyed the luxuries and amenities that the spa had to offer. They would enter the sauna and steam room naked, which was the policy for all guests to abide. This regulation wasn't something that bothered both Laura and Marina. They would get used to the idea of being naked around other guests, female or male.
They would play their own game in the sauna, where they tried to resist the intense dry heat and run out to enjoy the cool fresh air. When they were both under a cold shower, they both screamed when the cold the water splashed on their skin, one of the staff members rebuked them, and told them to keep it down. They subsequently dried themselves off and decided to try the steam room.
The steam room was nebulous and humid when they opened up the glass door, and found somewhere to sit, avoiding the other guests from accidentally standing on their foot. They held hands to make sure they don't get lost, and that they both found their space to sit down. Once they were settled and relaxed, they could breath in the steam that vented out of the ceiling, they could feel the sugar like taste in their mouths. The steam room overall was more relaxing and tolerable for Marina, who had never been in a sauna or steam room until today, which was a new experience for her.
When they both exited the steam room and treated themselves to another cold shower, they decided to sit in the outdoor whirlpool, which lit up with a blue light since it was dark outside. Luckily there was no one in the whirlpool, so Laura and Marina could enjoy their privacy and intimacy. They would spend their time in the pool making out until a couple of male guests got in the pool with them. They looked slightly older, and were definitely not students. Obviously they enjoyed the sight of two girls kissing in the pool.
Before they could continue to watch Laura and Marina making out in the pool, Laura and Marina both found the whole situation awkward, so they decided to get out of the pool. This was mainly regarding the thought that the two males would make an attempt to hit on them, and not the fact that they were naked in the whirlpool.
Both Laura and Marina climbed out of the whirlpool and promptly wrapped a towel around themselves, looking back at the two males, who were mischievously smirking at them. This act of staring made Laura feel sexually harassed, she had the inclination to report them to a member of staff, but she decided against it. Mainly because this was something she had to expect in a place where guests are expected to be seen naked by others, and by coming to terms with that, it was obvious that the report wouldn't get taken further. If the two male guests would persist and follow them and make further attempts to flirt, then she would have grounds and a better reason to report them. Fortunately both her and Marina were not pursued, so they could hopefully enjoy the rest of their night without any more advances by other male guests.
The time had come for both Laura and Marina to have their massage as they approached the counter, where two female masseuses stood in front of a computer. Laura brought it to their attention that they have a reservation for a massage, and the two masseuses confirmed it and led the two to separate private rooms. Marina didn't like the idea too much that she had to be separated from Laura to have her massage done, but trusted the masseuse who was going to do her massage. This gave her déjá vu when Sabrina the stylist took her round the corner to have her makeover done.
Marina's masseuse was a young Asian woman, who introduced herself as „Mia". She offered Marina her small delicate hand which Marina amiably took and received a light shake and squeeze. She had dark hair and tanned skin. She was the same height as Marina and had a soft voice, which could barely be perceived to Marina's ears. Like Sabrina, she was really friendly, but did not have the same charm and personality; which wasn't a drawback. She was still pleasant and presentable, which emboldened Marina to follow her into the private room.
The room was small, with a table and a counter with lotions, oil, herbs and other massaging equipment. There were plants in various corners to beautify and make the room more inviting, and there was soft soothing music playing in the background.
Mia ordered Marina to climb onto the table and lie on her belly, which she obediently did, leaving a towel covering her bum. Mia told her to relax as she begun to proceed with the massage, which begun with simply rubbing oil deep into the skin.
Mia's soft delicate hands rubbed hard against Marina's back, the touching with palms pressing into her back tendered the back muscles. The strength of Mia's hands applied so much pressure, the cracking of bones could be heard, which didn't hurt at all; but sounded delightful to Marina's ears. She enjoyed the touch of Mia's hands rubbing hard against her back, and experiencing such pleasure she never experienced before, this sensation almost put Marina to sleep.
After what seemed to be a long passing of time, Mia requested Marina to flip onto her back and had her naked breasts covered up with a small long piece of cloth. The massage resumed with Mia working her hands on Marina's feet, which tickled her and almost brought her to laugh and impulsively kick, but Mia held Marina's feet with both her hands. She threaded her fingers through Marina's toes and applied circular motions on the bottom of the foot. Before moving onto the next foot, she bent the foot forwards and backwards emitting a crack, which made the joint of Marina's foot loose and pliable.
When Mia finished work on Marina's feet, she then progressed to the knee joints and loosened them up as well. Then she moved her hands on Marina's thighs and dug her fingertips into the fleshy supple surface of the thigh. Marina could feel a sexual pleasure, but knew that her vaginal area remained untouched by Mia's hands. She wondered if this is what sex felt like, if it was, she was hoping that she would share the same pleasure with Laura if they were to ever have intercourse.
Mia then moved onto Marina's hands, interweaving her fingers through hers and loosening the stiffness in the fingers and wrist. She then laid Marina's arm flat on the table, then rolled the part of her forearm which meets her elbow, over Marina's upper forearm. She did the same for both Marina's forearms and loosened the joints in her elbows.
Mia then dripped oil on Marina's belly and rubbed the oil on the surface of her belly, and even applied the pressure of her fingertips into Marina's abdomen. Mia then moved up to Marina to rub oil into the shoulders and squeeze the deltoids and platysma, she even used her thumbs to dig deep into her platysma, and even roll her thumb from Marina's neck to her deltoids.
Lastly, Mia then gave Marina a head massage by rubbing her oil soaked hands into Marina's hair. Just like when Sabrina did Marina's hair, she could feel fingers in the roots of her hair that gave tingling sensations. This made Marina feel relaxed and at peace, not caring about the troubles in the past, present and future. It was here and now, in her moment of pleasure, and to come out feeling refreshed and invigorated; reentering a world and be reunited with Laura, who had also gone through her moment of rejuvenation.
Mia slid her hands from Marina's scalp and announced that the massage was now over, and advised to relax for 10 minutes, and slowly get off the table and meet her at the bar, where a tea will be brewed for her.
Marina relaxed alone on the table, gazing up at the ceiling and listening to the ambient music that continuously played, and predicted how the rest of the night would go and the surprise she had in store for Laura.
Feeling replenished and determined to get back on her feet, and meet Mia in the bar, Marina sat herself up and gave herself a minute before dangling her feet over the edge of the table. Slowly and steadily, she lowered her feet onto the ground and stretched herself to resume the use of her legs. As she begun to use her legs again, she noticed how smooth her way of walking was, unlike before when she was stiff as a board. She found her bathrobe on the hanger, slipped it on and tied the cord. She looked at herself in the mirror to do a final inspection, and to make sure she looked good for Laura. Satisfied with the way she looked and armed with confidence, she opened the door and strutted outside to the bar ahead.
At the bar, Laura was found engaging in conversation with her masseuse, who was a young lady with hispanic looking features. Her hair was dark and tied back like Mia's, and she had dark brown expressive eyes and full lips like Laura. She was basically a hispanic version of Laura, which did make Marina smile and snicker at the resemblance and coincidence.
Marina saw Mia waiting warmly and avidly for her arrival at the bar. Mia presented her the tea that was red liquid in a wide cup, which sat on the bar still hot with steam rising out. Mia and Marina shook hands as Mia went in her own separate direction behind the bar.
Before Marina decided to sip her tea, fearing it was too hot for her lips, she tapped Laura on the shoulder and she impulsively turned to face Marina. Laura immediately smiled and faintly screeched as she slung her arms around a smiling jubilant Marina. Laura hummed affectionately through her tightly sealed lips, and Marina expressed a mixed emotion of both laughter and tears of happiness. The two then bestowed a long kiss, which both Mia and Laura's masseuse stared at with surprise that the two were lovers. The two masseuses decided to leave Laura and Marina to it, and went down the bar to attend other daily tasks that were on their router.
„Drink up Marina, your tea will go cold," ordered Laura in a friendly manner as she resumed to drink hers that was half empty.
Marina brought the cup to her lips and tasted the tea, which strongly tasted of strawberries and cinnamon. She enjoyed the taste and took big gulps of her tea, not understanding that tea is meant to be sipped and not guzzled.
Laura and Marina then decided to get something to eat and a cold soft drink at the bar, before they decided to visit the pool. Laura got herself a salmon bagel with cream cheese with tarragon, and Marina got herself a fruit salad. For drinks, Laura ordered a non-alcoholic mojito and Marina got herself homemade lemonade. It was conspicuous that Marina was quite a picky eater, and had not yet developed an appetite or craving to taste a variety of foods. Laura then decided to make it her mission to get Marina to try different foods, just like Marina was making it her mission to get Laura into Phil Collins.
After dinner, they went back to the changing rooms to put on their swimwear. Marina was skeptical about the idea of wearing a bikini, feeling a little insecure about exhibiting her body, but after being naked in front of others, she was comfortable wearing one for her first time. Her bikini was black and Laura's was light pink, and they put their bathrobes back on before they made their way to the pool.
The pool area was dark and only dimly lit by little round lights that were placed in a row near the floor, which would help spa attendees find their way, and not bump into the wall when they came in. The rush and swirling of water was heard being accompanied by the sound of slow music, which made Marina feel nervous, not only the Shangri-la she was about to explore; but the surprise she had for Laura.
The pool was massive, with some guests relaxing on the surface, supported by swimming aids. Laura and Marina held hands as they walked near the pool area and sat down on one of the benches next to the wall. They laid their towels and disrobed, and just sat there observing the pool they were intending to get into shortly.
The pool was lit in many different colors that changed subsequently after half a minute passed, and the whole room was equipped with other lighting effects, which moved and swerved in different movements and rhythms. Laura and Marina smiled at the beautiful sight like it was the 4th of July or New Year's Eve, except there were no loud noises. They both held hands and relished in the magnificent sight before experiencing what it was like to be in the pool, while basking in the lights and music.
Marina suggested that her and Laura wait before a specific time, which was when Marina's request of song will be played by the DJ. There was a clock on the wall, which helped keep track of the time and know when the song was going to be played. Marina would watch both the clock, and the DJ in the background, who seemed really busy at his deck of expensive and technical looking equipment.
When the digits of the clock switched to the next minute, Marina turned to Laura and said excitedly, „Well I think it's time we got in the pool, it's time for your surprise."
„Oh, it's in the pool?" assumed Laura.
Marina took Laura's hand as she led her to the pool. They both descended down the steps, until their feet were touching the floor, and the weight of the water reduced movement of their legs. Once they swam together to the middle of the pool, they grabbed hold of each other and looked each other in the eyes.
„Excited?" asked Marina, looking ambitious for what was to come.
„Yeah," answered Laura, feeling a little nervous what the surprise will be.
Marina moved her head over Laura's shoulder and whispered, „Just relax and listen."
They took hands and got ready to dance as „Your Own Special Way" by Genesis played in the background. The instrumental opening to the song sent shivers down Laura's spine, as she could hear the whale like singing and the acoustic guitar. Marina could feel herself getting cold, as both her and Laura got goosebumps, and their nipples went hard.
When Phil Collins vocals were heard, they paid close attention to the melodrama and romanticism in the vocals. While listening to the soft, eerie ballad they had their heads over each other's shoulders, and keeping their hands above the water, pertaining to the chorus of the song.
When the song gets to the instrumental part, the lights in the pool turn blue, and the ceiling turned black, with little stars trying to depict the night sky. Laura and Marina looked at each other with a pensive and melancholic facial expression. Laura's face was bright blue, and her forehead shimmered with the light that reflected on her. Marina was a darker blue with no beams of light touching her face as if she was almost enveloped in shadows.
After letting the sentimental instrumental part of the song sink in, a note sustains, which induces them to kiss. They apply three slow passionate, wistful kisses timing with the melody, before they slowly separate their lips. Both were expressing their maudlin faces with tears soaking their eyes, and they began to cry. Laura tearfully mouths, „Come here." The two embrace tightly and cried on each other's shoulders, both feeling warm and consoled, and continued to listen to the rest of the song. The closing lyrics „Don't ever leave me" would remain in Laura and Marina's memory as the final note of the song faded into silence. They both smiled contently and swam to the steps leading out the pool, and retired back to the bench. Laura rolled out a towel as they both lay on the bench to relax next to each other.
„Marina that was so beautiful, how did you come up with the idea?" wondered Laura still feeling touched by the aftermath of Marina's surprise.
„Your mum gave me the idea," answered Marina with a smirk on her face.
„What, how?" asked Laura surprised and curious.
„When I last visited your mum, she told me this was the song that she and your father danced to," divulged Marina, as the look on Laura's face reacted with shock as she gasped and became speechless.
„Marina… I… you really… oh Marina, I don't know what to say," gasped Laura.
„You don't need to say anything, I know how you feel," said Marina, stroking Laura's arm that was still covered in goosebumps and damp with salt water.
„You never cease to amaze me Marina, you really are creative," praised Laura.
„And you're beautiful, more beautiful than anything" retorted Marina, provoking Laura to smile and stroke Marina's face and kiss her. Their foreheads and noses touch as they lay still, with their eyes closed and listened to the music the DJ played.
„Guess what," said Marina.
„What?" whispered Laura with a faint voice as if she was almost asleep, but was clearly awake as she was still stroking Marina's face with her fingertips.
„I have us another song I requested the DJ to play us," announced Marina.
„Really, what song?" asked Laura fixing a smile on her face.
„Another song by Genesis," acknowledged Marina.
„What has my mum done to you, you've become so obsessed with the band," remarked Laura.
„Well I'm hoping you might get into the band, it's their deep profound style of music, which takes you on a spiritual journey; not to mention the vocals of Phil Collins. His voice really brings passion and life to the band, which is how he became the star he is," lectured Marina.
„Marina… you are such a critic… I just don't think I can handle your next surprise," bantered Laura.
Marina chuckled weakly and stroked Laura on the forehead with her fingernails and whispered, „Just listen okay… and enjoy it."
Shortly after the DJ concluded the track he was playing, he put on „Afterglow" by Genesis, which was another track Marina requested him to play. Laura and Marina would remain on the bench, relaxed and preoccupied themselves with the opening tunes. The plucking of the electric guitar, ambient keyboard playing and the vocals by Collins gave the song atmosphere, connotation and overtone, which compelled Laura and Marina to keep their eyes closed and listen.
Laura perceived the song to be about afterlife and the absence of a loved one, in other words, the song reminded her of her father. The song even brought back the happy memory of meeting her father in the realm of the dead, and reveling in the opportunity to talk to him again and receive guidance.
Marina would imagine herself with Laura in the afterlife, where they would be free to love each other for eternity, and nothing not even death was going to separate them.
When the song ended, they opened their eyes and exchanged conversation, which involved their opinion about the song and what it means. Laura even admitted that she has obtained a different perspective of Genesis, and is open to other tracks that Marina would eventually introduce her to.
Before the conversation got too lengthy, one of the staff members approached Laura and Marina and informed them that the spa would be closing in half an hour. This notification resulted in the lovers quickly putting on their bathrobes and heading to the changing rooms to get dressed, before they are again approached by staff, and given a more stern notice.
Laura and Marina quickly got dressed and left the spa with their hair still damp and letting it dry in the night air. Standing outside where there was no traffic or pedestrians in sight. Laura suggested getting a taxi, but Marina stopped her and suggested walking back, even going through the dark path that leads back into town. At first Laura displays skepticism and nervousness, but Marina smiles and offers Laura her hand.
„Don't worry Laura, I'll guide you, you'll be safe with me," assuaged Marina affectionately.
„I trust you Marina," said Laura with a smile and willingly takes Marina's hand and allowing her to lead her through the path, which was pitch black with no sliver or patch of light to guide them. Together they walked down in darkness, down in silence and after a moment of uneasiness they both saw the light, and eagerly and energetically hurried towards it.
They were now out of the shroud and gazing at civilization where the community was brightly lit by street lamps and house lights. This amazing beautiful sight made the short intimidating walk through the dark path worth it, only to see how wonderful the night atmosphere can appease to the human eye. Better experiencing the sight by foot and not by any public transportation provided.
This wasn't the end of their journey back home as they continued to walk straight back into town, and back to where they can get into bed, where they can sleep and wake up to another beautiful day.
To be continued...
