Friday night fever

I have always been a crowd pleaser, a little something for all. Firstly, I was part of different families but over time I became my own. You could say I am second in the World, after her. At times we are compared and although we have our similarities, I am diverse and full of flavour. My taste is beautifully balanced. Home for me is warm climates and acres of lush green rolling hills. My Daddy always knew I would travel. His little black bird. My big Oak Tree. I may be young but I was born for this.

You can see violets sitting pretty on the window, as the last of the day’s Sun fans across the petals as it retreats into dusk. Baked spices and Musique De Chambre fill the space. Phoebe’s Ancestors come from the Bordeaux region of France and fond memories of her Grandfather and Jean-Michel Damase are present in the large ground floor flat. Phoebe is standing tall, slim neck and full bodied with soft silk draped on her skin, red Berries on her lips. A real crowd pleaser. It is a late Summer’s night and through the semi- opaque hanging drapes you can see the infinite night sky turn from soft pink to deep purple. The perfect night for romance. His knock is confident yet calm, he is happy to be here. As Phoebe moves to let him in, I wonder if he is a red or a white? I mean not that it matters when I am in the room. Bold I know.

Phoebe and Jaxson introduced themselves to each other in the waiting room of a Podiatrist’s office. Both suffering from hereditary ingrown toe nails, he joked they could be related. She hoped not, she liked his smile. After many not so subtle visits from both, to Dr. Carrick’s office, the Gentleman asked the Lady to dinner and the offer was gladly accepted. Dr Carrick had observed all encounters and approved subconsciously to the affair. It had proven to be good for business. Next there was Rio to think of. Phoebe had adopted a tabby kitten who slept peacefully under her bedroom window and loved the sounds of classical music. Rio was currently sick and Phoebe felt best not to leave him alone. Dinner was arranged for 7pm Friday evening at her home.

Mocha and vanilla are two of Phoebe’s favorite flavours so she offers him a cup of an old family recipe upon arrival. He can’t resist and shortly after compliments her palette. It was a natural aphrodisiac. Jaxson felt like he had been in her home before, it was familiar. The paintings on the walls and the photographs of friends and family being silly at Christmas felt like they belonged to Jaxson, also. Phoebe gestures him to take a high seat at the kitchen counter whilst she continues to prepare dinner. The Librarian, who’s ruby red hair is loosely tied back, possessed excellent cooking skills that had been nurtured since she was a girl. Experimenting with ingredients is one of her big loves and I am always on hand to go with what-ever is prepared. With my smooth interior I pair effortlessly with her variety and sit well with all her spices. Tonight’s special is Filet Mignon served with perfectly seasoned French Fries, red fruit sauce and roasted vegetables. Followed by gorgonzola and pickled walnuts. The saliva from Jaxson’s glands lubricate his mouth. Watching her glide around the kitchen he begins to tell her of a boisterous Tennis Tournament coming up between himself and old University friends. The first weekend in September is spent with them competing for bragging rights. Once the day is over the friends retreat to the local beer garden. The evening follows with them all reminiscing and teasing or admiring each other about their performance . This would be their Fourth Year and Jaxson was determined to be Champion for the first time. Phoebe had no doubt he would succeed. Dinner was served on mismatched yet charming plates which she had collected whilst thrift shopping. The rich fruit sauce sits in a China gravy boat she had taken from her Grandfathers home. The gravy boat always sailed her back to times spent with him eating Roast beef and mash potatoes, watching Cricket matches. Phoebe tells the tale to a listening audience about the passing of her Grandfather. The story is sealed with a raised glass in memory of the Wise old Man. With me in hand, both drinking a glass of Merlot they touch in his honor. Salute. It is my common place to be in sincere moments such as this. It is what I was born for. The night continues with an abundance of conversation and a locally purchased Fruit tart. Jaxson is unsure if he can fit any more food into his stomach until the desert is placed in front of him. Once more he finds him unable to resist. Even if Phoebe wasn’t the baker he suspects the juicy pie would be fitting to enjoy with the last mouthfuls of Merlot. Jaxson wasn’t mistaken, we go heavenly together.

Jaxson now back on his side of the door and with Phoebe placed at hers they say good-night to each other. With the ease of the evening on his side the young man takes a chance and presses his lips against hers. The kiss is reciprocated and the pair embrace. After a few moments and some more heartfelt goodbyes Jaxson starts his journey In the warm air. Fully equipped with a bursting stomach, red berries on his lips and a little of me stained on his white shirt, he strolls all the way home. Smiling at every stranger he passes by.