Chapter 1
She is temporarily working at the local diner.
A beautiful blonde woman in her 40s, looking a bit like Norma in Twin Peaks. She stands behind the counter when he walks in, looking like he owns the place with his cowboy hat and sheriff badge.
He is deadly handsome with his thick hair, blue eyes and grey stubble. He doesn’t notice her at first, he just sits down and takes a look at the menu.
“Pour me a cup of coffee, will you?”
He says, and she walks over to his table, pouring the coffee.
“Ben Thompson, in the flesh. How are you?”
He lifts his head and looks her straight in the eyes. A flash of recognition and something more, something hungrier.
”My my, look who’s here. Our very own little Cherry Blossom. Little Cherry Pie. Damn, woman. You must have lost 60 pounds since I last saw you. I like your hair too.”
“Why thank you. 70 pounds actually, but who’s counting. Grown women usually care about how they look, don’t they? Unlike 15 year old girls trying to be one of the boys. Not that you and my brother let me hang out with you very much.”
“Indeed, but you know how it is in high school. Too busy attending rodeos and hooking up with cheerleaders to notice Robbie’s baby sister. So how did you end up back here? You all left after Robbie’s graduation.”
“We did, and it was a wise choice. Our parents got better jobs in the big city, and Robbie could stay at home during college. Then I moved out, married, had two kids and got divorced. The kids have moved out now too.”
“Divorce huh? What made you come back here?”
“My grandmother is ill and uncle Joe asked my mother if she could come. She was tied up at work, so I offered to help. I work here during evenings and weekends to help while my uncle is at work.”
“Yeah I heard that Ann-Marie was unwell, I’m sorry. Poor Joe hasn’t retired yet, has he?”
“No he hasn’t, that’s why I wanted to help.”
“That’s very kind of you Cherry, you always seemed like the type who cared about others.”
“Yep, that’s me. As long as people deserve my care.”
“Oh really now? And what would I have to do to deserve your care?”
His face is a flirty smirk, waiting eagerly for her response.
“Oh I’m sure I can think of something.”
She says with an equally flirty smirk, while leaning on the counter and showing her impressive cleavage. He stares for a moment without trying to hide the hunger in his gaze. Then he looks her in the eyes.
“Quite the temptress you’ve become, Cherry Blossom.”
“I’m sure you can handle it, big guy. So tell me, what have you been up to since high school?”
He is silent for a moment, looking at her with an enigmatic expression.
“I’m sure your uncle Joe or some old friend has told you bits and pieces about me. No need to act innocent.”
“You got me. I do know a bit about you that goes beyond your address and your profession.”
“I’ll take you out for a coffee tomorrow and you can tell me all you know about me.”
“How generous of you Ben. Just don’t get any ideas, OK?”
“I’m full of ideas, baby. But sure, I’ll behave. For now.”
He winks and pays before leaving the diner.
The next day they sit at the nearby coffee shop, and he smirks at her.
“So, Cherry Blossom. I’m listening. Tell me the story of my life.”
“Two wives, both left you. You lost custody of your children.”
“That’s right. I’m free as a bird.”
“It doesn’t bother you that you have two failed marriages and barely see your kids?”
“I try not to dwell on the past.”
“Let’s play a little game shall we? We take turns asking questions, and we both have to answer honestly?”
“Sure, sounds easy enough. Do you want me to go first?”
“By all means, go ahead.”
“Do you find me attractive?”
“Yes, I do. Did you threaten your ex wives?
“Yes.”
“Why?”
“I believe that it is God’s will that the woman shall obey her husband. Disobedience must be punished. My turn. Were you hoping to meet me when you came back here?”
“Yes I was. Are you aware that it says nowhere in the bible that a man should threaten his woman?”
“Yes I am. But it does say that she should obey him.”
“So why not do what normal couples do? Have a loud argument for an hour and then have steamy make up sex?”
“That’s the normal way of handling things, huh? Sure, I could do that.”
“So, does that mean that you admit that two failed marriages call for a change?”
“Yeah, seems I’m a dinosaur or something. Defeated by my very own version of the ”me too” movement.”
“Wow, I didn’t expect you to be so insightful.”
“I have my moments. Especially when I’m trying to prove to a beautiful Cherry Blossom that I’m not a monster.”
“You are aware that you have ruined these women’s lives? That you are the monster in their nightmares?”
“Yes, I’m aware of that. But I can’t change the past, can I? All I can do is promise that it won’t happen again.”
“Tell me something, Ben. What is going on between you and God to make you change like that?”
“God sent me a message when my second wife left me. She worshiped me, I thought nothing would make her leave. But when I asked her why she was leaving, she said that she deserved better than to live with a man who treats her poorly.”
“God explained to you, through her, that you did wrong?”
“Yeah, call it a moment of clarity, call it one loss too many. I’m not sure. I just didn’t feel like a good christian anymore. I felt that God was punishing me for my lifestyle. For the first and only time in my life.”
“I have to say Ben, I’m actually impressed. Not many people change their religious beliefs like that.”
He gives her an enigmatic smile, but he can’t hide the joy and pride in his eyes.
“That means more than you know, Cherry Blossom.”
“You are aware that there will be all kinds of rules and expectations if this is to become a thing?”
“A thing huh? I’m listening. Name your price, baby.”
“Really now? My price? I thought you were just hot for me.”
“Ha ha, if you only knew how hot I am for you, sweetheart. But this is more than that. You draw me in, like a magnet. Like I will go crazy if I can’t see you.”
“Didn’t expect you to be so verbal, big guy… But OK, are you ready for the rules?”
“Hit me with it.”
“This is our first date. I want two more to feel comfortable. It will be a ”third date, third base” thing.”
“That’s cute, and also admirable. Anticipation is half the fun.”
“Glad we’re on the same page. And if we both want this, then in the long run there will be no marriage and no disrespect or threatening of any kind. Not from my end either.
“You have my word.”
He puts his hand on hers, looking right into her eyes with a look that is almost kind and loving.
“Jesus, who are you and what have you done with Ben Thompson?”
“What can I say baby, a moment of clarity can change everything. And I appreciate that you’re brave enough to take a chance on me.”
“Yeah, I’m probably the biggest fool in history. But like you said, it’s like a magnet, pulling me towards you.”
“So, these two dates we’re going on. What would you like to do?”
“How about the farmers market tomorrow? Food tasting, throwing some darts, having some cider? And then the next day maybe we could go horse back riding and have a private picnic?”
“That sounds perfect, Cherry Blossom. You’re quite the date planner.”
“Thank you, big guy. Ever heard the expression ‘know your crowd?’”
She smirks and runs a teasing finger over his hand, sending a shiver down his spine.
“Damn, woman. How do you do that? Make me feel like I’m buzzing from a simple touch?”
“Must be the magnetic pull… See you tomorrow, Ben.”
She gives him a quick hug, and he watches her leave, too stunned to speak. Thinking to himself that he’s in deep trouble, that this woman will redefine everything he thought he knew about relationships. And he also can’t stop thinking about her hair, her smile, her eyes, her body… the way her finger moved over his hand, and the way her breasts brushed against him when she hugged him.
The next day they have a lovely time at the market, he feeds her small pieces of cheese and marmalade, and she is giggling like a school girl half the time.
“Rumor has it that you shocked a police woman once, what happened?”
“Oh man… Two state troopers, a man and a woman, they came to the ranch to speak to me. I was in my outdoor hot tub at the time.
“You had a meeting with the state police while you were having a bath?”
“Yeah… but they wanted me to come out of there, and so I did.”
“No… don’t tell me? You were naked? You did a full frontal on them? That’s hilarious.”
“Yep, can’t deny it. The woman looked away and said ”oh for fuck’s sake!”
“Ha ha, you absolute dog! What I wouldn’t give to be there and watch that spectacle.”
“You wanted to take a good look at me, huh?”
He smirks at her.
“Arrogance will get you nowhere, mister. And I’m pretty sure I will get my own full frontal soon enough.”
She smirks back.
“Well played, Cherry blossom. Well played.”
The next day he prepares two horses for them and smiles at her when she shows up at the ranch.
“I wasn’t even sure you still knew how to ride.”
“Please, it’s like riding a bicycle, once you know it you know it for life.”
“Well I got you a calm and friendly one just in case. This is Cotton.”
“Hello Cotton, it’s lovely to meet you. What’s the name of your horse, Ben?”
“Candy. No I’m kidding, ha ha. This beauty is named Sunflower.”
They ride along the fields, enjoying the scenery. Then they enter the forest, and follow the trail up to a view point. They sit off and spread the blanket close to the cliff, enjoying the magnificent view.
“You know… the part that scares me about dating you isn’t the fact that you are, or at least were, a bad man.”
“No? What scares you then, pray tell?”
“I’m afraid that if I let my guard down and let myself fall for you… Then you will lose interest, or start taking me for granted. Or both.”
“Cherry, let me tell you something. Nothing would make me happier, prouder and more humble than watching you fall for me. It would take a lot more than that to make me go distant. Maybe if you cling to me like a koala 24/7, but I have a feeling that won’t happen, will it? “
“No, it won’t. As cute as the image of me being a koala on you is, I am an independent woman who wants to have an equal, respectful relationship. Nothing more, nothing less.”
“And I am ready to give you that. If you’ll have me.”
“People don’t change easily, and I respect that. But I believe that you have been through enough to realize that the hard and rough style costs you too much? That it’s time for a different approach?”
“You have a way with words, Cherry Blossom. And you’re absolutely right.”
She looks straight into his eyes, the sincerity she is feeling being reflected back at her. They both feel like they’re drowning, just holding each other’s gaze.
“Kiss me, Ben… Show me how much you want me…”
“I thought you’d never ask, sweetheart…”
He gently cups her face in his large hands, stroking her cheeks with his thumbs. His gaze is warm, almost reverent. He leans in, slowly, giving her the chance to change her mind. When she closes her eyes and parts her lips slightly, he closes the distance and kisses her. Softly at first, fully enjoying the contact. Then they both deepen the kiss, letting their tongues meet, feeling a shiver run through their bodies. She reluctantly breaks the kiss and looks at him through hooded eyes.
“I’ve never wanted anyone the way I want you.”
“The feeling is entirely mutual, baby…”
“Can we go back to the ranch now? I think it’s time you show me your home…”
“Nothing would make me happier, sweetheart…”
They ride in silence, occasionally smiling at each other. Both of them thinking about how the kiss affected their whole bodies, making the anticipation build even further, reaching a fever pitch. Once they are inside the bedroom, she gives him a warm but intense gaze.
“Take off your clothes, Ben.”
“You want me to undress first?”
She nods and he obeys.
“Like what you see, baby?”
“Yes, gorgeous… You’re magnificent… Stroke yourself while I undress…”
She puts on a show for him, swaying her hips and twirling to give him a good view from every angle. Her perfect hourglass body on full display.
“Christ almighty, Cherry… You’re exquisite…”
“Thank you, lover… Now, I need you to stand still for me, OK? Don’t move until I say you can…”
“Anything for you, gorgeous…”
She moves to stand behind him, stroking her hard nipples over his back and her shaved pussy over his ass. The fingers on her left hand scratches his hairy chest.
“I have a thing for chest hair…”
“Good lord, woman… You’re killing me…”
“Shh, I’m sure you can take it…”
She grabs his cock and strokes it slowly, while placing soft kisses on his back. He moans loudly.
“You’re doing so well, lover… So patient, letting me have my way with you… Makes me want to feel your hands and your mouth all over my body…”
She walks over to the bed and lies down on her back, posing invitingly for him. He lies down on top of her, kissing her deeply, unable to hide how desperate he is for her.
“I will worship this perfect body of yours.”
“Mmm, start with my neck and my nipples…”
He places soft kisses on her neck and collarbone, while softly stroking her breast with his large hand. He moves down and takes a nipple in his mouth, swirling his tongue around it and sucking gently. She moans loudly.
“Mmm, yes… Just like that…”
Encouraged by her words, he gives the other nipple the same attention, while she buries her hands in his hair.
“I need to taste you, sweetheart…”
He kisses her stomach and places a teasing tongue inside her belly button. Then he moves down to where she needs him most, kissing her inner thigh and stroking her wet pussy.
“You smell divine, baby… Such a perfect pussy, so wet and beautiful…”
“Mmm, let me feel your mouth and your fingers, gorgeous…”
He laps at her clit, making her gasp. He alternates between kitten laps and swirling his tongue.
“Yes, that’s it… You feel incredible…”
He puts two fingers inside her pussy, teasing her sweet spot.
“Oh god, Ben… I’m so close…
“Let go for me baby… I want to watch you fall apart in my arms…”
“Aaaahhh, I’m coming!!”
“Yes, Cherry! You’re so beautiful when you come…”
He keeps touching her through her climax, before moving up to kiss her, letting her feel herself on his tongue.
“Mmm, that was amazing, lover…”
“You’re amazing baby… So gorgeous when you let go like that… Are you ready for me, sweetheart?”
“Yes, I’m ready for you…”
He grabs his cock and strokes it over her wet folds, both of them moaning at the sensation. Then he snaps and buries himself inside her in one powerful thrust, making them both gasp. They don’t speak, they just keep their eyes closed and focus entirely on the exquisite feeling. He sets a deep, powerful rhythm, moaning loudly.
“Christ baby, I won’t last long…”
“You don’t have to… We can do it again, and again…”
“Mmm, I like the sound of that…”
“Don’t hold back, lover… Let me hear you… “
“Oh god, Cherry!! I’m cumming so hard!!”
He roars with pleasure as his orgasm crashes over him. She holds him through it, enjoying the look of pure bliss on his face. He collapses on top of her, careful not to crush her with his weight. She wraps her legs over his thighs and scratches the hair at the nape of his neck, while stroking his back with her other hand.
“Good lord, sweetheart… That was…”
“Magnificent?”
“Yes, exactly…”
He nuzzles her neck, making no attempt to move away. They stay like that for a long while. Then he rolls over on his back and takes her with him so her leg rests on his thigh and her arm on his chest. They both smile warmly.
“How about a nap before round two?”
“Mmm, a lovely nap with a lovely woman? Yes please.”
“Your scent alone is enough to make me dizzy.”
“That was my line baby…”
Their eye lids go heavy and soon they are fast asleep, content in each other’s arms.
