A Book of Many Secrets
The aroma of freshly brewed beans and the jazz in the café was working wonders on Richard’s spirits. Hiking in this quaint country had turned a good idea of a break from his nagging girlfriend.
It was then that he saw or rather smelled this, goddess-like, a country girl who walked in with a confident air. Her smell was intoxicating like the damp earth on a rainy day and he couldn't get enough of it. She wore an olive cardigan that fell on her curves revealing her sensuous figure. The long boots holding her slender legs- exposed her knees- revealing her perfect brown skin. And the crimson scarf sat beautifully on her long neck. She settled with her coffee and soon was engrossed in a book. Each time she blinked her eyes- her long eyelashes fluttered like a butterfly. Her cherry lips parted in a rhythm as she sipped her coffee. He tried to divert his mind, but it would run back to her. Finally, “Hello!” Smiling, he approached her. Startled, she looked up, “Oh! You got me scared.” She said laughing. “I’m sorry.” “Okay, if I join?” he asked “Sure.” she let him sit. “So I see you love books,” he said with a glint in his eyes. “This? It's nothing.” She said smiling. “I’m in awe of the beauty here.” He said with a mischievous smile. With a straight face, she said, “Okay.” “I meant the beauty of this place. Don’t get me wrong.” He added smiling slyly. “I’m Rachel.” She said, holding out her hand. She had a childlike excitement as she spoke about that neighbourhood. Richard was only physically present. Each time their knees collided under the narrow table a current would shoot through his body. His brain wasn’t capturing any words- lost in transit between Rachel’s eyes. Her words left him hypnotized. He kept nodding occasionally and that kept her going. The sky was getting dark and the chill was beginning to hurt. The warmth of the fireplace reassured their senses as they found comfort in each other’s company. Soon it was closing time, and with a heavy heart, she picked up her book and they started towards the door, “Can I walk you out?” She said with a glint in her eyes. “Sounds cool.” He said, seizing the moment. Their arms brushed as they walked into the dark, wintry night. Slowly she slipped her hand in his when they turned into a deserted street. And then, In a snap, she untied her crimson scarf- slipping over his nape, doubly twisting and tightened the grip. “Hand over everything you have, darling.” She whispered in his ears. Her warm breath made the hair stand on the back of his neck. “My little friend over here never misses a shot.” She said, pressing the gun over his ribs, which till now had been cosily hiding inside the leaves of the book that had been neatly carved to accommodate the tiny piece of metal. ____ ____