After a restless night, David came into the kitchen expecting Warren to be ready for the excursion to Berkeley.
“Good morning, Son, you ready for our day with Nadia,” he asked?
“Sorry, papa,” he said, using the name he called David since he was a toddler, “I’ve been up all night working on this project,” he said.
“But Nadia will be expecting both of us,” David said.
Warren frowned over his papers, “It’s not as if you need a chaperone,” he quipped.
“Don’t be smart, Warren,” David snapped.
“Ouch, that got my attention, pop. What’s wrong? She’s lovely woman and we had a great evening.”
David made a pot of tea and sat down.
“Son, remember the last few months your mom was alive?”
“Dad, is it O.K. if I say something?”
“Of course,” Warren frowned.
“Nadia used to call. At first it was once a week, then a couple of times a week and pretty soon it was almost every night.”
“That was nice of her,” Warren said.
“We talked about your mom, we talked about you and her kids and then music, art, philosophy, almost everything under the sun,” David said.
“She became kind of a support system to me.” he added.
“I’m sure it was all above board, Dad.”
“It was,” David said, “There was never anything tasteless or crude about it.”
“Then what’s the problem,” Warren asked?
David frowned, “I don’t really know but she avoids the topic. Something about it panics her.” David ran his hand through his hair. “Dad, is it O.K. if I say something?”
“Of course, we’re always honest with each other,” David said ruefully.
Warren suggested, “I think you’re uncomfortable because Nadia is the first woman that you are attracted to since mom died.”
David got up and looked out the window.
“Papa,” Warren said and paused to make sure he had David’s attention.
David turned back and looked at his son.
“Pop, it was pretty obvious to me” he said, “And it’s mutual,” he told his father.
“She was your mom’s best friend,” David said.
“Listen, pop,” it’s not incest.” He joked.
“Your mom and I had something special,” David said.
“And so did Nadia and Anders, just relax and let it be whatever it is,” Warren said.
“O.K., you’re right, somehow it feels disloyal, I don’t know,” David shrugged, “a betrayal.”
“Dad, you don’t eat, you don’t sleep, and you’re losing weight. You’re a man of faith, give God a chance, you’re trying to run things without Him.”
“O.K., O.K.,” David responded, “Much of what you say is true.”
David drank his tea and ate some fruit with yogurt then went to shower and shave.
It was a beautiful day as he drove downtown to pick Nadia up at her hotel.
He mulled over what Warren said and realized that both he and Nadia had started to distance themselves on the ride home last night. He wondered how he should act and struck that thought. I’ll just be honest he thought to himself.
He mulled over what Warren said and realized that both he and Nadia had started to distance themselves on the ride home last night. He wondered how he should act and struck that thought. I’ll just be honest he thought to himself.
Nadia was in front of the hotel when he arrived at eleven. A different doorman helped her into his vintage, silver mustang.
“Good morning,” he said, trying out his honesty policy, “I thought you might call and cancel,” he said.
She looked at him and dropped the casual pretense, “I almost did,” she admitted.
“Good,” he said, “We have that out of the way. Now, let’s just be two normal people having a nice day.”
She leaned back and relaxed, “Since we’re being honest, I noticed you in front of the hotel too, before I knew who you were.”
He laughed, “I got a lecture from Warren this morning.”
“He called to excuse himself,” she said. “What did he tell you,” she asked?
“Warren thinks that we should both relax and stop trying to control things,” David said.
Nadia was quiet and started watching the passing scenery. As they crossed over the Bay Bridge she commented on the beauty of the whole Bay Area.
“What’s it like, the place you’re taking me,” she asked?
“The apartment is usually rented to grad students,” he said. It’s a three block walk to the University campus and has an international flavor. You will notice a collage of languages, cultures, foods and new immigrants.
She smiled, “That does sound comfortable for me,” she conceded.
“I saw Nureyev dance at Zellerbach Hall and I often go to photography and art shows at the University,” David said.
“It sounds like I could keep busy,” she said.
“Three or four blocks in the opposite direction is an area called the Gourmet Ghetto with great restaurants, fresh food markets, and interesting little shops. I love Berkeley,” he smiled, sheepishly
“You do sound a bit like the chamber of commerce,” she teased.
“I lived there when I wrote my masters and first book,” he told her.
“I read your first book years ago on one of my tours. Sadie gave it to me,” she said.
“And how did the study of a wolf pack in Alaska’s wilderness mix with a concert tour,” he asked.
“I was very interested in your admiration for the pack. Many of their characteristics are quite inspiring. It took me completely away from the concert scene to a different world,?” she said.
They had achieved a level of comfort again. “Would you like to see the apartment first or have lunch,” he asked?
She seemed excited by what he had told her about the area and said, “Let’s drive by the apartment first and then go to the Gourmet Ghetto for lunch.”
Wondering through an area that seemed to be mostly residential, David slowed and pulled over to the curb. Spanish in appearance, there was a gated patio that led to the upstairs unit
She was excited, “Oh, let’s go in,” she asked?
He grinned and helped her out of the car and they walked through the small courtyard with a fountain and flower beds. Tile stairs and wrought iron railing led up to a solid wood door with black iron hardware.
He opened the door with his key and she wandered off and started exploring. The apartment was very light and airy with Spanish style, tile floors and two free standing iron fireplaces. Arched doorways and inset windows gave the rooms a bit of character and the kitchen, while small was colorfully tiled with a breakfast bar and stools.
David found Nadia outside the kitchen on the enclosed, rooftop patio with the greenhouse.
He watched her, write furiously on a notepad; biting her lower lip in concentration. She was wearing glasses now, and unconsciously kept pushing them up as they insisted on sliding down her nose. She is captivating; he thought. He wondered what Sadie was thinking about them?
He watched her, write furiously on a notepad; biting her lower lip in concentration. She was wearing glasses now, and unconsciously kept pushing them up as they insisted on sliding down her nose. She is captivating; he thought. He wondered what Sadie was thinking about them?
She looked up and he asked, “Have you seen the rest of the apartment yet?”
“It’s so perfect,” she said, “Better than anything I could imagine.”
“There isn’t much closet space,” he said, “and the bathroom is small.”
The glasses slipped further down her nose as she raised her eyebrows, “Are you having second thoughts?”
“No,” he smiled, “I was thinking about furniture.”
“I don’t need much,” she said.
“I don’t think you’ll be packing it up and taking it with you,” he said, “so let’s go half and half on that.”
He wanted to kiss the tip of her nose; hell, he thought, this is crazy.
“Is everything all right,” she asked.
“I was wishing I could sneak a look at your notes,” he chuckled, “I imagine most of what you have listed could be found in a gardening nursery.”
He was a tall, masculine man; a professor, writer, and successful businessman who had often been listed in popular magazines as one of the top ten catches in America since Sadie’s death.
“Maybe this isn't a good idea,” she said.
“Warren told me that we are healthy adults behaving naturally,” David said. “He’s probably right, because until now all I’ve been feeling is emptiness.”
“And we’re both consenting adults,” she said rudely.
He crossed his arms and casually leaned back against the door jamb. His eyes lazily moved over her body, arrogant in response to her remark.
“Actually, I didn't get to the sex part yet,” he told her.
She flushed, “I’m sorry, David.”
“I was just resisting the urge to kiss the tip of your nose,” he said gently.
Her eyes brightened with unshed tears as she turned and busied herself putting the notebook and glasses back in her purse.
“Let’s go to lunch,” he said, “it will be easier to talk in a restaurant.”
He drove to the Gourmet Ghetto area pointing out several good restaurants. “I would take you to Chez Panisse but it opens for dinner."
“What kind of food would you like for lunch”, he asked?
“You choose,” she said, “but I am hungry,” she warned.
He parked and they walked to a Thai restaurant he enjoyed.
The waiter took them to a table on the small, rear patio where cascading bougainvilleas and the sound of running water pleased the senses.
The waiter took them to a table on the small, rear patio where cascading bougainvilleas and the sound of running water pleased the senses.
David ordered a pot of special blend tea and several appetizers while they discussed the rest of the menu.
She was enjoying his company and said, “You were right; everything on my list is for the patio and greenhouse. I think I completely missed the bedroom,” she laughed at herself.
She bit into a delicate, crispy roll, “This is so good, what is it,” she asked?
He bit into one of the same rolls, “It is very good; crab meat blended with creamed cheese,” he decided.
“Try one of the Basil rolls,” he suggested, “they’re filled with sweet basil, fresh lettuce and shrimp. Use the peanut sauce with them,” he advised.
“Last night, Warren told me that you don’t eat or sleep and you walk the city streets all day,” she told him.
“You seem to be eating well today,” she added, between bites.
“He worries too much,” David said, “But my appetite is very good today,” he said.
“What are we going to do, David, these feelings,” she raised her shoulders, “so unexpected?”
"Really," he asked?
"All right, David, can we wait to talk about what's going on with me? It's just too hard with everything else," she said.
"Nadia, it's confusing for me, because we became very close during those long, all night talks. To be quite honest, I don't think I would have made it without your support."
"Thank you, David, just hang in there please, you'll understand when I can talk."
"O.K., I'll trust you for now," David agreed.
"Really," he asked?
"All right, David, can we wait to talk about what's going on with me? It's just too hard with everything else," she said.
"Nadia, it's confusing for me, because we became very close during those long, all night talks. To be quite honest, I don't think I would have made it without your support."
"Thank you, David, just hang in there please, you'll understand when I can talk."
"O.K., I'll trust you for now," David agreed.
The waiter cleared away the dishes and brought a fresh pot of tea.
“I know we need to be open with all of this and I will, I just didn't realize the physical attraction between us would be so strong," she admitted.
Good, he thought to himself, she acknowledges everything, that's a start he thought to himself.
“For now, I think we should keep busy doing the things that need to be done and see how our relationship grows.”
“And sex,” she asked bluntly?
“I think we should wait until the idea becomes more comfortable for both of us.”
Then he added, “After all, it’s not an extramarital affair, Nadia.”
Then he added, “After all, it’s not an extramarital affair, Nadia.”
“You are so reasonable about it,” she said.
He laughed, “I am always quite reasonable until I begin to feel,” he said.
The waiter arrived with their salad.
“This is beautiful,” she commented.
Warm grilled salmon and red, cherry tomatoes rested on a bed of fresh, green, baby spinach drizzled with a special salad dressing.
She savored each bite and enjoyed watching David’s improved appetite.
“It’s so hard living without a man,” burst out as she watched him.
“Sorry, I don’t know where that came from,” she admitted.
He responded, “I know, I’m not cut out for single life,” he said, “I miss the intimacy of marriage. I miss it terribly,” he confessed.
“Both of us spent most of our lives married, that’s how we learned to live, David.”
“I’m stuffed,” she said.
“Only one more course,” he laughed, “Just think next time you’ll be able to take home a doggie bag.”
“That does sound nice,” she smiled, then asked, “You mentioned that you come over here to the University and to the restaurants quite often?”
“I won’t become a nuisance, Nadia, or at least I’ll try not to,” he promised.
“That's not what I was thinking, David.”
“I come here often on Monday night for dinner at Chez Panisse. If you like we can go together sometime,” he responded.
The waiter cleared again and brought the entrée: soft shell crab sautéed with seasonal vegetables in panang sauce.
“This is marvelous,” she said, “I wish I could do it justice,” but she did better then she thought she could.
On the way back to the city, David said, “We'll get you settled in and comfortable and then I'll give you some space to plant your garden and make it your home,” David promised.
When they stopped in front of her hotel she reached over and kissed his cheek, "David, I think I came here on purpose. I don't know any other reason."
He smiled at her and said he would call her the next day, then he watched her walk away.
copyright After a restless night, David came into the kitchen expecting Warren to be ready for the excursion to Berkeley.
“Good morning, Son, you ready for our day with Nadia,” he asked?
“Sorry, papa,” he said, using the name he called David since he was a toddler, “I’ve been up all night working on this project,” he said.
“But Nadia will be expecting both of us,” David said.
Warren frowned over his papers, “It’s not as if you need a chaperone,” he quipped.
“Don’t be smart, Warren,” David snapped.
“Ouch, that got my attention, pop. What’s wrong? She’s lovely woman and we had a great evening.”
David made a pot of tea and sat down.
“Son, remember the last few months your mom was alive?”
“Dad, is it O.K. if I say something?”
“Of course,” Warren frowned.
“Nadia used to call. At first it was once a week, then a couple of times a week and pretty soon it was almost every night.”
“That was nice of her,” Warren said.
“We talked about your mom, we talked about you and her kids and then music, art, philosophy, almost everything under the sun,” David said.
“She became kind of a support system to me.” he added.
“I’m sure it was all above board, Dad.”
“It was,” David said, “There was never anything tasteless or crude about it.”
“Then what’s the problem,” Warren asked?
David frowned, “I don’t really know but she avoids the topic. Something about it panics her.” David ran his hand through his hair. “Dad, is it O.K. if I say something?”
“Of course, we’re always honest with each other,” David said ruefully.
Warren suggested, “I think you’re uncomfortable because Nadia is the first woman that you are attracted to since mom died.”
David got up and looked out the window.
“Papa,” Warren said and paused to make sure he had David’s attention.
David turned back and looked at his son.
“Pop, it was pretty obvious to me” he said, “And it’s mutual,” he told his father.
“She was your mom’s best friend,” David said.
“Listen, pop,” it’s not incest.” He joked.
“Your mom and I had something special,” David said.
“And so did Nadia and Anders, just relax and let it be whatever it is,” Warren said.
“O.K., you’re right, somehow it feels disloyal, I don’t know,” David shrugged, “a betrayal.”
“Dad, you don’t eat, you don’t sleep, and you’re losing weight. You’re a man of faith, give God a chance, you’re trying to run things without Him.”
“O.K., O.K.,” David responded, “Much of what you say is true.”
David drank his tea and ate some fruit with yogurt then went to shower and shave.
It was a beautiful day as he drove downtown to pick Nadia up at her hotel.
He mulled over what Warren said and realized that both he and Nadia had started to distance themselves on the ride home last night. He wondered how he should act and struck that thought. I’ll just be honest he thought to himself.
He mulled over what Warren said and realized that both he and Nadia had started to distance themselves on the ride home last night. He wondered how he should act and struck that thought. I’ll just be honest he thought to himself.
Nadia was in front of the hotel when he arrived at eleven. A different doorman helped her into his vintage, silver mustang.
“Good morning,” he said, trying out his honesty policy, “I thought you might call and cancel,” he said.
She looked at him and dropped the casual pretense, “I almost did,” she admitted.
“Good,” he said, “We have that out of the way. Now, let’s just be two normal people having a nice day.”
She leaned back and relaxed, “Since we’re being honest, I noticed you in front of the hotel too, before I knew who you were.”
He laughed, “I got a lecture from Warren this morning.”
“He called to excuse himself,” she said. “What did he tell you,” she asked?
“Warren thinks that we should both relax and stop trying to control things,” David said.
Nadia was quiet and started watching the passing scenery. As they crossed over the Bay Bridge she commented on the beauty of the whole Bay Area.
“What’s it like, the place you’re taking me,” she asked?
“The apartment is usually rented to grad students,” he said. It’s a three block walk to the University campus and has an international flavor. You will notice a collage of languages, cultures, foods and new immigrants.
She smiled, “That does sound comfortable for me,” she conceded.
“I saw Nureyev dance at Zellerbach Hall and I often go to photography and art shows at the University,” David said.
“It sounds like I could keep busy,” she said.
“Three or four blocks in the opposite direction is an area called the Gourmet Ghetto with great restaurants, fresh food markets, and interesting little shops. I love Berkeley,” he smiled, sheepishly
“You do sound a bit like the chamber of commerce,” she teased.
“I lived there when I wrote my masters and first book,” he told her.
“I read your first book years ago on one of my tours. Sadie gave it to me,” she said.
“And how did the study of a wolf pack in Alaska’s wilderness mix with a concert tour,” he asked.
“I was very interested in your admiration for the pack. Many of their characteristics are quite inspiring. It took me completely away from the concert scene to a different world,?” she said.
They had achieved a level of comfort again. “Would you like to see the apartment first or have lunch,” he asked?
She seemed excited by what he had told her about the area and said, “Let’s drive by the apartment first and then go to the Gourmet Ghetto for lunch.”
Wondering through an area that seemed to be mostly residential, David slowed and pulled over to the curb. Spanish in appearance, there was a gated patio that led to the upstairs unit
She was excited, “Oh, let’s go in,” she asked?
He grinned and helped her out of the car and they walked through the small courtyard with a fountain and flower beds. Tile stairs and wrought iron railing led up to a solid wood door with black iron hardware.
He opened the door with his key and she wandered off and started exploring. The apartment was very light and airy with Spanish style, tile floors and two free standing iron fireplaces. Arched doorways and inset windows gave the rooms a bit of character and the kitchen, while small was colorfully tiled with a breakfast bar and stools.
David found Nadia outside the kitchen on the enclosed, rooftop patio with the greenhouse.
He watched her, write furiously on a notepad; biting her lower lip in concentration. She was wearing glasses now, and unconsciously kept pushing them up as they insisted on sliding down her nose. She is captivating; he thought. He wondered what Sadie was thinking about them?
He watched her, write furiously on a notepad; biting her lower lip in concentration. She was wearing glasses now, and unconsciously kept pushing them up as they insisted on sliding down her nose. She is captivating; he thought. He wondered what Sadie was thinking about them?
She looked up and he asked, “Have you seen the rest of the apartment yet?”
“It’s so perfect,” she said, “Better than anything I could imagine.”
“There isn’t much closet space,” he said, “and the bathroom is small.”
The glasses slipped further down her nose as she raised her eyebrows, “Are you having second thoughts?”
“No,” he smiled, “I was thinking about furniture.”
“I don’t need much,” she said.
“I don’t think you’ll be packing it up and taking it with you,” he said, “so let’s go half and half on that.”
He wanted to kiss the tip of her nose; hell, he thought, this is crazy.
“Is everything all right,” she asked.
“I was wishing I could sneak a look at your notes,” he chuckled, “I imagine most of what you have listed could be found in a gardening nursery.”
He was a tall, masculine man; a professor, writer, and successful businessman who had often been listed in popular magazines as one of the top ten catches in America since Sadie’s death.
“Maybe this isn't a good idea,” she said.
“Warren told me that we are healthy adults behaving naturally,” David said. “He’s probably right, because until now all I’ve been feeling is emptiness.”
“And we’re both consenting adults,” she said rudely.
He crossed his arms and casually leaned back against the door jamb. His eyes lazily moved over her body, arrogant in response to her remark.
“Actually, I didn't get to the sex part yet,” he told her.
She flushed, “I’m sorry, David.”
“I was just resisting the urge to kiss the tip of your nose,” he said gently.
Her eyes brightened with unshed tears as she turned and busied herself putting the notebook and glasses back in her purse.
“Let’s go to lunch,” he said, “it will be easier to talk in a restaurant.”
He drove to the Gourmet Ghetto area pointing out several good restaurants. “I would take you to Chez Panisse but it opens for dinner."
“What kind of food would you like for lunch”, he asked?
“You choose,” she said, “but I am hungry,” she warned.
He parked and they walked to a Thai restaurant he enjoyed.
The waiter took them to a table on the small, rear patio where cascading bougainvilleas and the sound of running water pleased the senses.
The waiter took them to a table on the small, rear patio where cascading bougainvilleas and the sound of running water pleased the senses.
David ordered a pot of special blend tea and several appetizers while they discussed the rest of the menu.
She was enjoying his company and said, “You were right; everything on my list is for the patio and greenhouse. I think I completely missed the bedroom,” she laughed at herself.
She bit into a delicate, crispy roll, “This is so good, what is it,” she asked?
He bit into one of the same rolls, “It is very good; crab meat blended with creamed cheese,” he decided.
“Try one of the Basil rolls,” he suggested, “they’re filled with sweet basil, fresh lettuce and shrimp. Use the peanut sauce with them,” he advised.
“Last night, Warren told me that you don’t eat or sleep and you walk the city streets all day,” she told him.
“You seem to be eating well today,” she added, between bites.
“He worries too much,” David said, “But my appetite is very good today,” he said.
“What are we going to do, David, these feelings,” she raised her shoulders, “so unexpected?”
"Really," he asked?
"All right, David, can we wait to talk about what's going on with me? It's just too hard with everything else," she said.
"Nadia, it's confusing for me, because we became very close during those long, all night talks. To be quite honest, I don't think I would have made it without your support."
"Thank you, David, just hang in there please, you'll understand when I can talk."
"O.K., I'll trust you for now," David agreed.
"Really," he asked?
"All right, David, can we wait to talk about what's going on with me? It's just too hard with everything else," she said.
"Nadia, it's confusing for me, because we became very close during those long, all night talks. To be quite honest, I don't think I would have made it without your support."
"Thank you, David, just hang in there please, you'll understand when I can talk."
"O.K., I'll trust you for now," David agreed.
The waiter cleared away the dishes and brought a fresh pot of tea.
“I know we need to be open with all of this and I will, I just didn't realize the physical attraction between us would be so strong," she admitted.
Good, he thought to himself, she acknowledges everything, that's a start he thought to himself.
“For now, I think we should keep busy doing the things that need to be done and see how our relationship grows.”
“And sex,” she asked bluntly?
“I think we should wait until the idea becomes more comfortable for both of us.”
Then he added, “After all, it’s not an extramarital affair, Nadia.”
Then he added, “After all, it’s not an extramarital affair, Nadia.”
“You are so reasonable about it,” she said.
He laughed, “I am always quite reasonable until I begin to feel,” he said.
The waiter arrived with their salad.
“This is beautiful,” she commented.
Warm grilled salmon and red, cherry tomatoes rested on a bed of fresh, green, baby spinach drizzled with a special salad dressing.
She savored each bite and enjoyed watching David’s improved appetite.
“It’s so hard living without a man,” burst out as she watched him.
“Sorry, I don’t know where that came from,” she admitted.
He responded, “I know, I’m not cut out for single life,” he said, “I miss the intimacy of marriage. I miss it terribly,” he confessed.
“Both of us spent most of our lives married, that’s how we learned to live, David.”
“I’m stuffed,” she said.
“Only one more course,” he laughed, “Just think next time you’ll be able to take home a doggie bag.”
“That does sound nice,” she smiled, then asked, “You mentioned that you come over here to the University and to the restaurants quite often?”
“I won’t become a nuisance, Nadia, or at least I’ll try not to,” he promised.
“That's not what I was thinking, David.”
“I come here often on Monday night for dinner at Chez Panisse. If you like we can go together sometime,” he responded.
The waiter cleared again and brought the entrée: soft shell crab sautéed with seasonal vegetables in panang sauce.
“This is marvelous,” she said, “I wish I could do it justice,” but she did better then she thought she could.
On the way back to the city, David said, “We'll get you settled in and comfortable and then I'll give you some space to plant your garden and make it your home,” David promised.
When they stopped in front of her hotel she reached over and kissed his cheek, "David, I think I came here on purpose. I don't know any other reason."
He smiled at her and said he would call her the next day, then he watched her walk away.After a restless night, David came into the kitchen expecting Warren to be ready for the excursion to Berkeley.
When they stopped in front of her hotel she reached over and kissed his cheek, "David, I think I came here on purpose. I don't know any other reason."
He smiled at her and said he would call her the next day, then he watched her walk away.After a restless night, David came into the kitchen expecting Warren to be ready for the excursion to Berkeley.
“Good morning, Son, you ready for our day with Nadia,” he asked?
“Sorry, papa,” he said, using the name he called David since he was a toddler, “I’ve been up all night working on this project,” he said.
“But Nadia will be expecting both of us,” David said.
Warren frowned over his papers, “It’s not as if you need a chaperone,” he quipped.
“Don’t be smart, Warren,” David snapped.
“Ouch, that got my attention, pop. What’s wrong? She’s lovely woman and we had a great evening.”
David made a pot of tea and sat down.
“Son, remember the last few months your mom was alive?”
“Dad, is it O.K. if I say something?”
“Of course,” Warren frowned.
“Nadia used to call. At first it was once a week, then a couple of times a week and pretty soon it was almost every night.”
“That was nice of her,” Warren said.
“We talked about your mom, we talked about you and her kids and then music, art, philosophy, almost everything under the sun,” David said.
“She became kind of a support system to me.” he added.
“I’m sure it was all above board, Dad.”
“It was,” David said, “There was never anything tasteless or crude about it.”
“Then what’s the problem,” Warren asked?
David frowned, “I don’t really know but she avoids the topic. Something about it panics her.” David ran his hand through his hair. “Dad, is it O.K. if I say something?”
“Of course, we’re always honest with each other,” David said ruefully.
Warren suggested, “I think you’re uncomfortable because Nadia is the first woman that you are attracted to since mom died.”
David got up and looked out the window.
“Papa,” Warren said and paused to make sure he had David’s attention.
David turned back and looked at his son.
“Pop, it was pretty obvious to me” he said, “And it’s mutual,” he told his father.
“She was your mom’s best friend,” David said.
“Listen, pop,” it’s not incest.” He joked.
“Your mom and I had something special,” David said.
“And so did Nadia and Anders, just relax and let it be whatever it is,” Warren said.
“O.K., you’re right, somehow it feels disloyal, I don’t know,” David shrugged, “a betrayal.”
“Dad, you don’t eat, you don’t sleep, and you’re losing weight. You’re a man of faith, give God a chance, you’re trying to run things without Him.”
“O.K., O.K.,” David responded, “Much of what you say is true.”
David drank his tea and ate some fruit with yogurt then went to shower and shave.
It was a beautiful day as he drove downtown to pick Nadia up at her hotel.
He mulled over what Warren said and realized that both he and Nadia had started to distance themselves on the ride home last night. He wondered how he should act and struck that thought. I’ll just be honest he thought to himself.
He mulled over what Warren said and realized that both he and Nadia had started to distance themselves on the ride home last night. He wondered how he should act and struck that thought. I’ll just be honest he thought to himself.
Nadia was in front of the hotel when he arrived at eleven. A different doorman helped her into his vintage, silver mustang.
“Good morning,” he said, trying out his honesty policy, “I thought you might call and cancel,” he said.
She looked at him and dropped the casual pretense, “I almost did,” she admitted.
“Good,” he said, “We have that out of the way. Now, let’s just be two normal people having a nice day.”
She leaned back and relaxed, “Since we’re being honest, I noticed you in front of the hotel too, before I knew who you were.”
He laughed, “I got a lecture from Warren this morning.”
“He called to excuse himself,” she said. “What did he tell you,” she asked?
“Warren thinks that we should both relax and stop trying to control things,” David said.
Nadia was quiet and started watching the passing scenery. As they crossed over the Bay Bridge she commented on the beauty of the whole Bay Area.
“What’s it like, the place you’re taking me,” she asked?
“The apartment is usually rented to grad students,” he said. It’s a three block walk to the University campus and has an international flavor. You will notice a collage of languages, cultures, foods and new immigrants.
She smiled, “That does sound comfortable for me,” she conceded.
“I saw Nureyev dance at Zellerbach Hall and I often go to photography and art shows at the University,” David said.
“It sounds like I could keep busy,” she said.
“Three or four blocks in the opposite direction is an area called the Gourmet Ghetto with great restaurants, fresh food markets, and interesting little shops. I love Berkeley,” he smiled, sheepishly
“You do sound a bit like the chamber of commerce,” she teased.
“I lived there when I wrote my masters and first book,” he told her.
“I read your first book years ago on one of my tours. Sadie gave it to me,” she said.
“And how did the study of a wolf pack in Alaska’s wilderness mix with a concert tour,” he asked.
“I was very interested in your admiration for the pack. Many of their characteristics are quite inspiring. It took me completely away from the concert scene to a different world,?” she said.
They had achieved a level of comfort again. “Would you like to see the apartment first or have lunch,” he asked?
She seemed excited by what he had told her about the area and said, “Let’s drive by the apartment first and then go to the Gourmet Ghetto for lunch.”
Wondering through an area that seemed to be mostly residential, David slowed and pulled over to the curb. Spanish in appearance, there was a gated patio that led to the upstairs unit
She was excited, “Oh, let’s go in,” she asked?
He grinned and helped her out of the car and they walked through the small courtyard with a fountain and flower beds. Tile stairs and wrought iron railing led up to a solid wood door with black iron hardware.
He opened the door with his key and she wandered off and started exploring. The apartment was very light and airy with Spanish style, tile floors and two free standing iron fireplaces. Arched doorways and inset windows gave the rooms a bit of character and the kitchen, while small was colorfully tiled with a breakfast bar and stools.
David found Nadia outside the kitchen on the enclosed, rooftop patio with the greenhouse.
He watched her, write furiously on a notepad; biting her lower lip in concentration. She was wearing glasses now, and unconsciously kept pushing them up as they insisted on sliding down her nose. She is captivating; he thought. He wondered what Sadie was thinking about them?
He watched her, write furiously on a notepad; biting her lower lip in concentration. She was wearing glasses now, and unconsciously kept pushing them up as they insisted on sliding down her nose. She is captivating; he thought. He wondered what Sadie was thinking about them?
She looked up and he asked, “Have you seen the rest of the apartment yet?”
“It’s so perfect,” she said, “Better than anything I could imagine.”
“There isn’t much closet space,” he said, “and the bathroom is small.”
The glasses slipped further down her nose as she raised her eyebrows, “Are you having second thoughts?”
“No,” he smiled, “I was thinking about furniture.”
“I don’t need much,” she said.
“I don’t think you’ll be packing it up and taking it with you,” he said, “so let’s go half and half on that.”
He wanted to kiss the tip of her nose; hell, he thought, this is crazy.
“Is everything all right,” she asked.
“I was wishing I could sneak a look at your notes,” he chuckled, “I imagine most of what you have listed could be found in a gardening nursery.”
He was a tall, masculine man; a professor, writer, and successful businessman who had often been listed in popular magazines as one of the top ten catches in America since Sadie’s death.
“Maybe this isn't a good idea,” she said.
“Warren told me that we are healthy adults behaving naturally,” David said. “He’s probably right, because until now all I’ve been feeling is emptiness.”
“And we’re both consenting adults,” she said rudely.
He crossed his arms and casually leaned back against the door jamb. His eyes lazily moved over her body, arrogant in response to her remark.
“Actually, I didn't get to the sex part yet,” he told her.
She flushed, “I’m sorry, David.”
“I was just resisting the urge to kiss the tip of your nose,” he said gently.
Her eyes brightened with unshed tears as she turned and busied herself putting the notebook and glasses back in her purse.
“Let’s go to lunch,” he said, “it will be easier to talk in a restaurant.”
He drove to the Gourmet Ghetto area pointing out several good restaurants. “I would take you to Chez Panisse but it opens for dinner."
“What kind of food would you like for lunch”, he asked?
“You choose,” she said, “but I am hungry,” she warned.
He parked and they walked to a Thai restaurant he enjoyed.
The waiter took them to a table on the small, rear patio where cascading bougainvilleas and the sound of running water pleased the senses.
The waiter took them to a table on the small, rear patio where cascading bougainvilleas and the sound of running water pleased the senses.
David ordered a pot of special blend tea and several appetizers while they discussed the rest of the menu.
She was enjoying his company and said, “You were right; everything on my list is for the patio and greenhouse. I think I completely missed the bedroom,” she laughed at herself.
She bit into a delicate, crispy roll, “This is so good, what is it,” she asked?
He bit into one of the same rolls, “It is very good; crab meat blended with creamed cheese,” he decided.
“Try one of the Basil rolls,” he suggested, “they’re filled with sweet basil, fresh lettuce and shrimp. Use the peanut sauce with them,” he advised.
“Last night, Warren told me that you don’t eat or sleep and you walk the city streets all day,” she told him.
“You seem to be eating well today,” she added, between bites.
“He worries too much,” David said, “But my appetite is very good today,” he said.
“What are we going to do, David, these feelings,” she raised her shoulders, “so unexpected?”
"Really," he asked?
"All right, David, can we wait to talk about what's going on with me? It's just too hard with everything else," she said.
"Nadia, it's confusing for me, because we became very close during those long, all night talks. To be quite honest, I don't think I would have made it without your support."
"Thank you, David, just hang in there please, you'll understand when I can talk."
"O.K., I'll trust you for now," David agreed.
"Really," he asked?
"All right, David, can we wait to talk about what's going on with me? It's just too hard with everything else," she said.
"Nadia, it's confusing for me, because we became very close during those long, all night talks. To be quite honest, I don't think I would have made it without your support."
"Thank you, David, just hang in there please, you'll understand when I can talk."
"O.K., I'll trust you for now," David agreed.
The waiter cleared away the dishes and brought a fresh pot of tea.
“I know we need to be open with all of this and I will, I just didn't realize the physical attraction between us would be so strong," she admitted.
Good, he thought to himself, she acknowledges everything, that's a start he thought to himself.
“For now, I think we should keep busy doing the things that need to be done and see how our relationship grows.”
“And sex,” she asked bluntly?
“I think we should wait until the idea becomes more comfortable for both of us.”
Then he added, “After all, it’s not an extramarital affair, Nadia.”
Then he added, “After all, it’s not an extramarital affair, Nadia.”
“You are so reasonable about it,” she said.
He laughed, “I am always quite reasonable until I begin to feel,” he said.
The waiter arrived with their salad.
“This is beautiful,” she commented.
Warm grilled salmon and red, cherry tomatoes rested on a bed of fresh, green, baby spinach drizzled with a special salad dressing.
She savored each bite and enjoyed watching David’s improved appetite.
“It’s so hard living without a man,” burst out as she watched him.
“Sorry, I don’t know where that came from,” she admitted.
He responded, “I know, I’m not cut out for single life,” he said, “I miss the intimacy of marriage. I miss it terribly,” he confessed.
“Both of us spent most of our lives married, that’s how we learned to live, David.”
“I’m stuffed,” she said.
“Only one more course,” he laughed, “Just think next time you’ll be able to take home a doggie bag.”
“That does sound nice,” she smiled, then asked, “You mentioned that you come over here to the University and to the restaurants quite often?”
“I won’t become a nuisance, Nadia, or at least I’ll try not to,” he promised.
“That's not what I was thinking, David.”
“I come here often on Monday night for dinner at Chez Panisse. If you like we can go together sometime,” he responded.
The waiter cleared again and brought the entrée: soft shell crab sautéed with seasonal vegetables in panang sauce.
“This is marvelous,” she said, “I wish I could do it justice,” but she did better then she thought she could.
On the way back to the city, David said, “We'll get you settled in and comfortable and then I'll give you some space to plant your garden and make it your home,” David promised.
When they stopped in front of her hotel she reached over and kissed his cheek, "David, I think I came here on purpose. I don't know any other reason."
He smiled at her and said he would call her the next day, then he watched her walk away.After a restless night, David came into the kitchen expecting Warren to be ready for the excursion to Berkeley.
“Good morning, Son, you ready for our day with Nadia,” he asked?
“Sorry, papa,” he said, using the name he called David since he was a toddler, “I’ve been up all night working on this project,” he said.
“But Nadia will be expecting both of us,” David said.
Warren frowned over his papers, “It’s not as if you need a chaperone,” he quipped.
“Don’t be smart, Warren,” David snapped.
“Ouch, that got my attention, pop. What’s wrong? She’s lovely woman and we had a great evening.”
David made a pot of tea and sat down.
“Son, remember the last few months your mom was alive?”
“Dad, is it O.K. if I say something?”
“Of course,” Warren frowned.
“Nadia used to call. At first it was once a week, then a couple of times a week and pretty soon it was almost every night.”
“That was nice of her,” Warren said.
“We talked about your mom, we talked about you and her kids and then music, art, philosophy, almost everything under the sun,” David said.
“She became kind of a support system to me.” he added.
“I’m sure it was all above board, Dad.”
“It was,” David said, “There was never anything tasteless or crude about it.”
“Then what’s the problem,” Warren asked?
David frowned, “I don’t really know but she avoids the topic. Something about it panics her.” David ran his hand through his hair. “Dad, is it O.K. if I say something?”
“Of course, we’re always honest with each other,” David said ruefully.
Warren suggested, “I think you’re uncomfortable because Nadia is the first woman that you are attracted to since mom died.”
David got up and looked out the window.
“Papa,” Warren said and paused to make sure he had David’s attention.
David turned back and looked at his son.
“Pop, it was pretty obvious to me” he said, “And it’s mutual,” he told his father.
“She was your mom’s best friend,” David said.
“Listen, pop,” it’s not incest.” He joked.
“Your mom and I had something special,” David said.
“And so did Nadia and Anders, just relax and let it be whatever it is,” Warren said.
“O.K., you’re right, somehow it feels disloyal, I don’t know,” David shrugged, “a betrayal.”
“Dad, you don’t eat, you don’t sleep, and you’re losing weight. You’re a man of faith, give God a chance, you’re trying to run things without Him.”
“O.K., O.K.,” David responded, “Much of what you say is true.”
David drank his tea and ate some fruit with yogurt then went to shower and shave.
It was a beautiful day as he drove downtown to pick Nadia up at her hotel.
He mulled over what Warren said and realized that both he and Nadia had started to distance themselves on the ride home last night. He wondered how he should act and struck that thought. I’ll just be honest he thought to himself.
He mulled over what Warren said and realized that both he and Nadia had started to distance themselves on the ride home last night. He wondered how he should act and struck that thought. I’ll just be honest he thought to himself.
Nadia was in front of the hotel when he arrived at eleven. A different doorman helped her into his vintage, silver mustang.
“Good morning,” he said, trying out his honesty policy, “I thought you might call and cancel,” he said.
She looked at him and dropped the casual pretense, “I almost did,” she admitted.
“Good,” he said, “We have that out of the way. Now, let’s just be two normal people having a nice day.”
She leaned back and relaxed, “Since we’re being honest, I noticed you in front of the hotel too, before I knew who you were.”
He laughed, “I got a lecture from Warren this morning.”
“He called to excuse himself,” she said. “What did he tell you,” she asked?
“Warren thinks that we should both relax and stop trying to control things,” David said.
Nadia was quiet and started watching the passing scenery. As they crossed over the Bay Bridge she commented on the beauty of the whole Bay Area.
“What’s it like, the place you’re taking me,” she asked?
“The apartment is usually rented to grad students,” he said. It’s a three block walk to the University campus and has an international flavor. You will notice a collage of languages, cultures, foods and new immigrants.
She smiled, “That does sound comfortable for me,” she conceded.
“I saw Nureyev dance at Zellerbach Hall and I often go to photography and art shows at the University,” David said.
“It sounds like I could keep busy,” she said.
“Three or four blocks in the opposite direction is an area called the Gourmet Ghetto with great restaurants, fresh food markets, and interesting little shops. I love Berkeley,” he smiled, sheepishly
“You do sound a bit like the chamber of commerce,” she teased.
“I lived there when I wrote my masters and first book,” he told her.
“I read your first book years ago on one of my tours. Sadie gave it to me,” she said.
“And how did the study of a wolf pack in Alaska’s wilderness mix with a concert tour,” he asked.
“I was very interested in your admiration for the pack. Many of their characteristics are quite inspiring. It took me completely away from the concert scene to a different world,?” she said.
They had achieved a level of comfort again. “Would you like to see the apartment first or have lunch,” he asked?
She seemed excited by what he had told her about the area and said, “Let’s drive by the apartment first and then go to the Gourmet Ghetto for lunch.”
Wondering through an area that seemed to be mostly residential, David slowed and pulled over to the curb. Spanish in appearance, there was a gated patio that led to the upstairs unit
She was excited, “Oh, let’s go in,” she asked?
He grinned and helped her out of the car and they walked through the small courtyard with a fountain and flower beds. Tile stairs and wrought iron railing led up to a solid wood door with black iron hardware.
He opened the door with his key and she wandered off and started exploring. The apartment was very light and airy with Spanish style, tile floors and two free standing iron fireplaces. Arched doorways and inset windows gave the rooms a bit of character and the kitchen, while small was colorfully tiled with a breakfast bar and stools.
David found Nadia outside the kitchen on the enclosed, rooftop patio with the greenhouse.
He watched her, write furiously on a notepad; biting her lower lip in concentration. She was wearing glasses now, and unconsciously kept pushing them up as they insisted on sliding down her nose. She is captivating; he thought. He wondered what Sadie was thinking about them?
He watched her, write furiously on a notepad; biting her lower lip in concentration. She was wearing glasses now, and unconsciously kept pushing them up as they insisted on sliding down her nose. She is captivating; he thought. He wondered what Sadie was thinking about them?
She looked up and he asked, “Have you seen the rest of the apartment yet?”
“It’s so perfect,” she said, “Better than anything I could imagine.”
“There isn’t much closet space,” he said, “and the bathroom is small.”
The glasses slipped further down her nose as she raised her eyebrows, “Are you having second thoughts?”
“No,” he smiled, “I was thinking about furniture.”
“I don’t need much,” she said.
“I don’t think you’ll be packing it up and taking it with you,” he said, “so let’s go half and half on that.”
He wanted to kiss the tip of her nose; hell, he thought, this is crazy.
“Is everything all right,” she asked.
“I was wishing I could sneak a look at your notes,” he chuckled, “I imagine most of what you have listed could be found in a gardening nursery.”
He was a tall, masculine man; a professor, writer, and successful businessman who had often been listed in popular magazines as one of the top ten catches in America since Sadie’s death.
“Maybe this isn't a good idea,” she said.
“Warren told me that we are healthy adults behaving naturally,” David said. “He’s probably right, because until now all I’ve been feeling is emptiness.”
“And we’re both consenting adults,” she said rudely.
He crossed his arms and casually leaned back against the door jamb. His eyes lazily moved over her body, arrogant in response to her remark.
“Actually, I didn't get to the sex part yet,” he told her.
She flushed, “I’m sorry, David.”
“I was just resisting the urge to kiss the tip of your nose,” he said gently.
Her eyes brightened with unshed tears as she turned and busied herself putting the notebook and glasses back in her purse.
“Let’s go to lunch,” he said, “it will be easier to talk in a restaurant.”
He drove to the Gourmet Ghetto area pointing out several good restaurants. “I would take you to Chez Panisse but it opens for dinner."
“What kind of food would you like for lunch”, he asked?
“You choose,” she said, “but I am hungry,” she warned.
He parked and they walked to a Thai restaurant he enjoyed.
The waiter took them to a table on the small, rear patio where cascading bougainvilleas and the sound of running water pleased the senses.
The waiter took them to a table on the small, rear patio where cascading bougainvilleas and the sound of running water pleased the senses.
David ordered a pot of special blend tea and several appetizers while they discussed the rest of the menu.
She was enjoying his company and said, “You were right; everything on my list is for the patio and greenhouse. I think I completely missed the bedroom,” she laughed at herself.
She bit into a delicate, crispy roll, “This is so good, what is it,” she asked?
He bit into one of the same rolls, “It is very good; crab meat blended with creamed cheese,” he decided.
“Try one of the Basil rolls,” he suggested, “they’re filled with sweet basil, fresh lettuce and shrimp. Use the peanut sauce with them,” he advised.
“Last night, Warren told me that you don’t eat or sleep and you walk the city streets all day,” she told him.
“You seem to be eating well today,” she added, between bites.
“He worries too much,” David said, “But my appetite is very good today,” he said.
“What are we going to do, David, these feelings,” she raised her shoulders, “so unexpected?”
"Really," he asked?
"All right, David, can we wait to talk about what's going on with me? It's just too hard with everything else," she said.
"Nadia, it's confusing for me, because we became very close during those long, all night talks. To be quite honest, I don't think I would have made it without your support."
"Thank you, David, just hang in there please, you'll understand when I can talk."
"O.K., I'll trust you for now," David agreed.
"Really," he asked?
"All right, David, can we wait to talk about what's going on with me? It's just too hard with everything else," she said.
"Nadia, it's confusing for me, because we became very close during those long, all night talks. To be quite honest, I don't think I would have made it without your support."
"Thank you, David, just hang in there please, you'll understand when I can talk."
"O.K., I'll trust you for now," David agreed.
The waiter cleared away the dishes and brought a fresh pot of tea.
“I know we need to be open with all of this and I will, I just didn't realize the physical attraction between us would be so strong," she admitted.
Good, he thought to himself, she acknowledges everything, that's a start he thought to himself.
“For now, I think we should keep busy doing the things that need to be done and see how our relationship grows.”
“And sex,” she asked bluntly?
“I think we should wait until the idea becomes more comfortable for both of us.”
Then he added, “After all, it’s not an extramarital affair, Nadia.”
Then he added, “After all, it’s not an extramarital affair, Nadia.”
“You are so reasonable about it,” she said.
He laughed, “I am always quite reasonable until I begin to feel,” he said.
The waiter arrived with their salad.
“This is beautiful,” she commented.
Warm grilled salmon and red, cherry tomatoes rested on a bed of fresh, green, baby spinach drizzled with a special salad dressing.
She savored each bite and enjoyed watching David’s improved appetite.
“It’s so hard living without a man,” burst out as she watched him.
“Sorry, I don’t know where that came from,” she admitted.
He responded, “I know, I’m not cut out for single life,” he said, “I miss the intimacy of marriage. I miss it terribly,” he confessed.
“Both of us spent most of our lives married, that’s how we learned to live, David.”
“I’m stuffed,” she said.
“Only one more course,” he laughed, “Just think next time you’ll be able to take home a doggie bag.”
“That does sound nice,” she smiled, then asked, “You mentioned that you come over here to the University and to the restaurants quite often?”
“I won’t become a nuisance, Nadia, or at least I’ll try not to,” he promised.
“That's not what I was thinking, David.”
“I come here often on Monday night for dinner at Chez Panisse. If you like we can go together sometime,” he responded.
The waiter cleared again and brought the entrée: soft shell crab sautéed with seasonal vegetables in panang sauce.
“This is marvelous,” she said, “I wish I could do it justice,” but she did better then she thought she could.
On the way back to the city, David said, “We'll get you settled in and comfortable and then I'll give you some space to plant your garden and make it your home,” David promised.
When they stopped in front of her hotel she reached over and kissed his cheek, "David, I think I came here on purpose. I don't know any other reason."
He smiled at her and said he would call her the next day, then he watched her walk away.MAfter a restless night, David came into the kitchen expecting Warren to be ready for the excursion to Berkeley.
When they stopped in front of her hotel she reached over and kissed his cheek, "David, I think I came here on purpose. I don't know any other reason."
He smiled at her and said he would call her the next day, then he watched her walk away.MAfter a restless night, David came into the kitchen expecting Warren to be ready for the excursion to Berkeley.
“Good morning, Son, you ready for our day with Nadia,” he asked?
“Sorry, papa,” he said, using the name he called David since he was a toddler, “I’ve been up all night working on this project,” he said.
“But Nadia will be expecting both of us,” David said.
Warren frowned over his papers, “It’s not as if you need a chaperone,” he quipped.
“Don’t be smart, Warren,” David snapped.
“Ouch, that got my attention, pop. What’s wrong? She’s lovely woman and we had a great evening.”
David made a pot of tea and sat down.
“Son, remember the last few months your mom was alive?”
“Dad, is it O.K. if I say something?”
“Of course,” Warren frowned.
“Nadia used to call. At first it was once a week, then a couple of times a week and pretty soon it was almost every night.”
“That was nice of her,” Warren said.
“We talked about your mom, we talked about you and her kids and then music, art, philosophy, almost everything under the sun,” David said.
“She became kind of a support system to me.” he added.
“I’m sure it was all above board, Dad.”
“It was,” David said, “There was never anything tasteless or crude about it.”
“Then what’s the problem,” Warren asked?
David frowned, “I don’t really know but she avoids the topic. Something about it panics her.” David ran his hand through his hair. “Dad, is it O.K. if I say something?”
“Of course, we’re always honest with each other,” David said ruefully.
Warren suggested, “I think you’re uncomfortable because Nadia is the first woman that you are attracted to since mom died.”
David got up and looked out the window.
“Papa,” Warren said and paused to make sure he had David’s attention.
David turned back and looked at his son.
“Pop, it was pretty obvious to me” he said, “And it’s mutual,” he told his father.
“She was your mom’s best friend,” David said.
“Listen, pop,” it’s not incest.” He joked.
“Your mom and I had something special,” David said.
“And so did Nadia and Anders, just relax and let it be whatever it is,” Warren said.
“O.K., you’re right, somehow it feels disloyal, I don’t know,” David shrugged, “a betrayal.”
“Dad, you don’t eat, you don’t sleep, and you’re losing weight. You’re a man of faith, give God a chance, you’re trying to run things without Him.”
“O.K., O.K.,” David responded, “Much of what you say is true.”
David drank his tea and ate some fruit with yogurt then went to shower and shave.
It was a beautiful day as he drove downtown to pick Nadia up at her hotel.
He mulled over what Warren said and realized that both he and Nadia had started to distance themselves on the ride home last night. He wondered how he should act and struck that thought. I’ll just be honest he thought to himself.
He mulled over what Warren said and realized that both he and Nadia had started to distance themselves on the ride home last night. He wondered how he should act and struck that thought. I’ll just be honest he thought to himself.
Nadia was in front of the hotel when he arrived at eleven. A different doorman helped her into his vintage, silver mustang.
“Good morning,” he said, trying out his honesty policy, “I thought you might call and cancel,” he said.
She looked at him and dropped the casual pretense, “I almost did,” she admitted.
“Good,” he said, “We have that out of the way. Now, let’s just be two normal people having a nice day.”
She leaned back and relaxed, “Since we’re being honest, I noticed you in front of the hotel too, before I knew who you were.”
He laughed, “I got a lecture from Warren this morning.”
“He called to excuse himself,” she said. “What did he tell you,” she asked?
“Warren thinks that we should both relax and stop trying to control things,” David said.
Nadia was quiet and started watching the passing scenery. As they crossed over the Bay Bridge she commented on the beauty of the whole Bay Area.
“What’s it like, the place you’re taking me,” she asked?
“The apartment is usually rented to grad students,” he said. It’s a three block walk to the University campus and has an international flavor. You will notice a collage of languages, cultures, foods and new immigrants.
She smiled, “That does sound comfortable for me,” she conceded.
“I saw Nureyev dance at Zellerbach Hall and I often go to photography and art shows at the University,” David said.
“It sounds like I could keep busy,” she said.
“Three or four blocks in the opposite direction is an area called the Gourmet Ghetto with great restaurants, fresh food markets, and interesting little shops. I love Berkeley,” he smiled, sheepishly
“You do sound a bit like the chamber of commerce,” she teased.
“I lived there when I wrote my masters and first book,” he told her.
“I read your first book years ago on one of my tours. Sadie gave it to me,” she said.
“And how did the study of a wolf pack in Alaska’s wilderness mix with a concert tour,” he asked.
“I was very interested in your admiration for the pack. Many of their characteristics are quite inspiring. It took me completely away from the concert scene to a different world,?” she said.
They had achieved a level of comfort again. “Would you like to see the apartment first or have lunch,” he asked?
She seemed excited by what he had told her about the area and said, “Let’s drive by the apartment first and then go to the Gourmet Ghetto for lunch.”
Wondering through an area that seemed to be mostly residential, David slowed and pulled over to the curb. Spanish in appearance, there was a gated patio that led to the upstairs unit
She was excited, “Oh, let’s go in,” she asked?
He grinned and helped her out of the car and they walked through the small courtyard with a fountain and flower beds. Tile stairs and wrought iron railing led up to a solid wood door with black iron hardware.
He opened the door with his key and she wandered off and started exploring. The apartment was very light and airy with Spanish style, tile floors and two free standing iron fireplaces. Arched doorways and inset windows gave the rooms a bit of character and the kitchen, while small was colorfully tiled with a breakfast bar and stools.
David found Nadia outside the kitchen on the enclosed, rooftop patio with the greenhouse.
He watched her, write furiously on a notepad; biting her lower lip in concentration. She was wearing glasses now, and unconsciously kept pushing them up as they insisted on sliding down her nose. She is captivating; he thought. He wondered what Sadie was thinking about them?
He watched her, write furiously on a notepad; biting her lower lip in concentration. She was wearing glasses now, and unconsciously kept pushing them up as they insisted on sliding down her nose. She is captivating; he thought. He wondered what Sadie was thinking about them?
She looked up and he asked, “Have you seen the rest of the apartment yet?”
“It’s so perfect,” she said, “Better than anything I could imagine.”
“There isn’t much closet space,” he said, “and the bathroom is small.”
The glasses slipped further down her nose as she raised her eyebrows, “Are you having second thoughts?”
“No,” he smiled, “I was thinking about furniture.”
“I don’t need much,” she said.
“I don’t think you’ll be packing it up and taking it with you,” he said, “so let’s go half and half on that.”
He wanted to kiss the tip of her nose; hell, he thought, this is crazy.
“Is everything all right,” she asked.
“I was wishing I could sneak a look at your notes,” he chuckled, “I imagine most of what you have listed could be found in a gardening nursery.”
He was a tall, masculine man; a professor, writer, and successful businessman who had often been listed in popular magazines as one of the top ten catches in America since Sadie’s death.
“Maybe this isn't a good idea,” she said.
“Warren told me that we are healthy adults behaving naturally,” David said. “He’s probably right, because until now all I’ve been feeling is emptiness.”
“And we’re both consenting adults,” she said rudely.
He crossed his arms and casually leaned back against the door jamb. His eyes lazily moved over her body, arrogant in response to her remark.
“Actually, I didn't get to the sex part yet,” he told her.
She flushed, “I’m sorry, David.”
“I was just resisting the urge to kiss the tip of your nose,” he said gently.
Her eyes brightened with unshed tears as she turned and busied herself putting the notebook and glasses back in her purse.
“Let’s go to lunch,” he said, “it will be easier to talk in a restaurant.”
He drove to the Gourmet Ghetto area pointing out several good restaurants. “I would take you to Chez Panisse but it opens for dinner."
“What kind of food would you like for lunch”, he asked?
“You choose,” she said, “but I am hungry,” she warned.
He parked and they walked to a Thai restaurant he enjoyed.
The waiter took them to a table on the small, rear patio where cascading bougainvilleas and the sound of running water pleased the senses.
The waiter took them to a table on the small, rear patio where cascading bougainvilleas and the sound of running water pleased the senses.
David ordered a pot of special blend tea and several appetizers while they discussed the rest of the menu.
She was enjoying his company and said, “You were right; everything on my list is for the patio and greenhouse. I think I completely missed the bedroom,” she laughed at herself.
She bit into a delicate, crispy roll, “This is so good, what is it,” she asked?
He bit into one of the same rolls, “It is very good; crab meat blended with creamed cheese,” he decided.
“Try one of the Basil rolls,” he suggested, “they’re filled with sweet basil, fresh lettuce and shrimp. Use the peanut sauce with them,” he advised.
“Last night, Warren told me that you don’t eat or sleep and you walk the city streets all day,” she told him.
“You seem to be eating well today,” she added, between bites.
“He worries too much,” David said, “But my appetite is very good today,” he said.
“What are we going to do, David, these feelings,” she raised her shoulders, “so unexpected?”
"Really," he asked?
"All right, David, can we wait to talk about what's going on with me? It's just too hard with everything else," she said.
"Nadia, it's confusing for me, because we became very close during those long, all night talks. To be quite honest, I don't think I would have made it without your support."
"Thank you, David, just hang in there please, you'll understand when I can talk."
"O.K., I'll trust you for now," David agreed.
"Really," he asked?
"All right, David, can we wait to talk about what's going on with me? It's just too hard with everything else," she said.
"Nadia, it's confusing for me, because we became very close during those long, all night talks. To be quite honest, I don't think I would have made it without your support."
"Thank you, David, just hang in there please, you'll understand when I can talk."
"O.K., I'll trust you for now," David agreed.
The waiter cleared away the dishes and brought a fresh pot of tea.
“I know we need to be open with all of this and I will, I just didn't realize the physical attraction between us would be so strong," she admitted.
Good, he thought to himself, she acknowledges everything, that's a start he thought to himself.
“For now, I think we should keep busy doing the things that need to be done and see how our relationship grows.”
“And sex,” she asked bluntly?
“I think we should wait until the idea becomes more comfortable for both of us.”
Then he added, “After all, it’s not an extramarital affair, Nadia.”
Then he added, “After all, it’s not an extramarital affair, Nadia.”
“You are so reasonable about it,” she said.
He laughed, “I am always quite reasonable until I begin to feel,” he said.
The waiter arrived with their salad.
“This is beautiful,” she commented.
Warm grilled salmon and red, cherry tomatoes rested on a bed of fresh, green, baby spinach drizzled with a special salad dressing.
She savored each bite and enjoyed watching David’s improved appetite.
“It’s so hard living without a man,” burst out as she watched him.
“Sorry, I don’t know where that came from,” she admitted.
He responded, “I know, I’m not cut out for single life,” he said, “I miss the intimacy of marriage. I miss it terribly,” he confessed.
“Both of us spent most of our lives married, that’s how we learned to live, David.”
“I’m stuffed,” she said.
“Only one more course,” he laughed, “Just think next time you’ll be able to take home a doggie bag.”
“That does sound nice,” she smiled, then asked, “You mentioned that you come over here to the University and to the restaurants quite often?”
“I won’t become a nuisance, Nadia, or at least I’ll try not to,” he promised.
“That's not what I was thinking, David.”
“I come here often on Monday night for dinner at Chez Panisse. If you like we can go together sometime,” he responded.
The waiter cleared again and brought the entrée: soft shell crab sautéed with seasonal vegetables in panang sauce.
“This is marvelous,” she said, “I wish I could do it justice,” but she did better then she thought she could.
On the way back to the city, David said, “We'll get you settled in and comfortable and then I'll give you some space to plant your garden and make it your home,” David promised.
When they stopped in front of her hotel she reached over and kissed his cheek, "David, I think I came here on purpose. I don't know any other reason."
He smiled at her and said he would call her the next day, then he watched her walk away.
copyright May 2013 karenmaceanruig
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