New Year’s Knights
We arrived at about 6:30 p.m. at the resort near Ft. Pierce, Florida. It was crazy at JFK (New York City airport) and almost gridlocked at the West Palm airport. I helped the folks unpack and organize their gear. Mr. Maxwell sauntered over and walked with me to my little bachelor pad. Even though he is in his 50’s, he is a fiercely competitive tennis player. He’s thrilled to have me there to play with him.
The resort is called ORA, Nettles Island built on a large manmade landfill island. It’s located halfway between Cape Canaveral and West Palm Beach. The developer split it into hundreds of mobile and RV lots with hook ups, small rear docks and a lot of cool amenities. The unique part of it is that you actually own the lot and not lease it.
Mom and Dad own two lots side by side with a mobile on each. The Indian River is on the west side and they back to a canal. We have a small boat on a lift behind their lot. I was so happy to have my own place. The location is great, near the clubhouse, the largest pool, gym and little restaurant. They filled my fridge with refreshments and a few bottles of booze. This already is a great Christmas present.
The first morning, when I stepped out of my place, I heard the squeals of two young girls. “Mom, Mom, look it’s Bobby Douglas, it’s Bobby.”
I turned around to look behind me, and no one was there. They were in the unit right next to me. The two ran over to me with pens and papers in their hands. “Hey Bobby, can we have your autograph?”
“Well girls, I’m not Bobby, I’m Sam. Who’s Bobby?
They looked up at me excitedly but totally confused. Their cute mom stepped out and said, “I’m sorry, but if you’re not Bobby Douglas, then you’re his twin, He’s the quarterback for the Chicago Bears. You look just like him, really!”
“Okay girls, as long as you know I’m not Bobby, I’ll sign. What’s his number?”
“Number 19 and I’m Kathy and this is Cindy.”
They stood anxiously awaiting with paper, their pens pointed. I signed each one, ‘With love, Bobby Douglas #19’. It was the first autograph session of my life. Their Mom thanked me and smiled, “See you around Bobby!”
Everyone has been so kind, setting me up with my own place. It’s a wonderful gift that I appreciate. “You’ve had a challenging and exciting year. You need a break. You need to recharge Sam,” Mom said.
I walked over to their place for some of my meals, but mostly I wanted to be on my own. Dad is so calm. This is his safe haven in many ways. He has his friends here, perfect weather, no hassles and as usual, a ton of drinking goes on.
My unit is steps from the clubhouse, pool, workout room and offices. The location couldn’t be any better. To top it off, they loaned me a small motorcycle. I’m able to buzz around the grounds and take trips to the ocean, pool and beach about a mile away.
After an intense workout on the second day, I cycled over to check out the pool and surf. All of the colleges were on Christmas break and the deck around the pool was crowded with young people. Luckily, a lounge opened up so I settled in and pulled a beer from my cooler. Ahhh, how heavenly is this, man.
In a few minutes, I heard a few giggles and a chick called out, “Nice tee shirt dude! Where did you score that far out gear?”
I was wearing the Jim Morrison/Doors shirt I had scored with Uncle Murray on my birthday. “Much love, great tunes right”. I replied?
“They are totally groovy, man!” three of them practically answered in unison.
I lowered my shades to see who was asking.
There were two long haired blondes, a redhead and a brunette, who was sitting quietly, the farthest away. The first three were wearing string bikinis, but the brunette was wearing a modest one piece, with a cover up.
“Well I know it sounds far out, but I met Morrison and the band in New York City. It was in September on my birthday.” I added.
“You’re kidding right?” chimed in the redhead.
“My uncle is a top DJ in the city and they were filming a gig for the Doors in his studio.”
“That’s cool man!” the blonde added.
“Obviously you’re from New York, right?” the brunette quietly spoke up.
“I sure am, from upstate in the Catskills. Where are you from?”
They all laughed. “We’re from upstate too. Ithaca College girls.”
“Small world, my sister goes to Cornell. We came all the way here to hang out with fellow New Yorkers, running away from the snow. May I get you ladies something from the bar?” I asked.
“Since you’re offering, four screwdrivers please,” the redhead spoke up. I came back with a tray of five. They had shocked looks on their faces.
“Awhhh, you were serious? That’s very sweet, thank you.”.
”“Before I give them to you, may I ask for your names? I’m Sam Jensen.” I smiled.
As I passed the drinks out, they introduced themselves. The redhead was Cindy, the blondes, Sue and Beth, and the intriguing brunette was Katie. She has this warm, calm aura of quiet confidence. I couldn’t see her eyes through her shades and that sense of mystery makes me want to dig deeper. We all chatted it up, did some swimming and three of them started to take off.
“See you later Sam. Maybe at the hotel night club tonight? They have a groovy little band that plays dance music,” added Beth.
Katie and I were left alone at the pool. I didn’t want to be rude and not speak with her. I also didn’t want to interfere with her calm vibe. She spoke up first, “What kind of music are you into Sam ?” She shyly asked.
“Mind if I sit next to you, it’s kind of weird to talk four chairs away.” She smiled, “Of course, help yourself”.
On the pool speakers the Beach Boys, “Good Vibrations” was playing.
“I’m all over the place Katie. I like classical, folk, rock and I actually sang the Messiah a few weeks ago.”
“You’re a singer? Wow, you don’t look like a singer. You look like a jock!” She said with a sly smile.
“Well … why can’t a person be both?”
She still had her shades on and I couldn’t read her eyes. The eyes tell everything.
“I’m in a band and we play so many different styles. I like variety, it keeps it fresh.”
Finally, she took off her glasses and looked at me. She has amazing eyes.
“Honestly Sam, I think that’s really cool. I didn’t mean to sound judgmental. I’m sorry if it came out wrong.
“No stress Katie, I get that a lot.”
“Well, I should join those three crazies. We are here through the New Years, so I’ll probably see you again.”
She stood up, offered her hand to shake and left. To say she was pretty was an understatement.
As soon as she was gone, three guys took their lounges. They were older, late 20’s, early 30’s.They sported moustaches, a few tats and a goatee. As they settled in, one of them laughed, “Hey dude, I didn’t know we were coming to a gun show! Where did you get those biceps man?” By his accent, I could tell he was a New Yorker also.
“It took a lot of blood, sweat and tears at the gym. Hours and hours of it !
“That’s a cool shirt laying there. We cover some of their tunes.”
“Somehow, you have the look and vibe of musicians,” I commented.
“Could it be the cloud of weed smoke circling us too.” He smirked.
“That’s cool, I play in a band too. It’s a local in upstate New York.”
“Dude really? We’re from Syracuse, which right now is ass deep in snow. What do you play? Oh, sorry. I’m Tom, this is John and this is Bill. We go by ‘The Kool Knights’.”
“That’s an awesome name guys. I play drums and do vocals for the Tunellos. I’m Sam. There are tons of New Yorkers here. I met four chicks here from Ithaca”.
“Yeah man, I can’t believe how many chicks are down here this year.” John commented.
“Sorry to be short guys, but I have to split to play some tennis at 2:00. Nice meeting all of you,” I said.
“Cool Sam, we’re playing in the Blue Lagoon lounge tonight. Come on by and we’ll buy you a drink,” John chipped in.
“Sounds great. I’ll try to make it.”
Bob Maxwell was my boss, when I managed the food stand at the dirt track races. I like to let him win sometimes for good will. We had a nice match. After tennis, I hit the weight room and took another swim. As I approached my pad, there was the familiar, “Bobby, Bobby, there’s Bobby!”
Now there was a third girl. I waved and played the charade out for them.
Being so tired, I crashed. When I woke up, It was 8:10 and pitch dark. The folks had gone out to dinner. The desire to get primped up and go to the nightclub was very low. But, I did want to connect with the band and maybe see the girls I met again.
The hotel parking lot was completely full on this peak holiday week. I parked the bike on the beach side walkway. The nightclub is called the “Blue Lagoon”, a very well-known venue on Hutchison Island. It has a Tiki themed bar, a small raised stage, lots of seating and a nice sized dance floor. The band hadn’t started and there was only a small crowd. I was just cruising around when I heard my name called out.
“Hey Sam the man.” It was Tom and the gang setting up. “Do you guys need any help setting up?” I asked.
“Sure, jump right in. What’s your pleasure at the bar?“
“Seven and seven, thanks man.”
I helped John set up his kit, did the sound check and started to leave.
“Hey man, you’re stayin’right? You have to stay dude. You’ll have fun. Our table is over there. Take a load off and ask for another drink.” Tom insisted.
The tables filled up quickly. Their first set was very cool. A little jazz, then a segue into rock and roll. For a bar band, they were doing really great. On their first break, we talked about new music, Uncle Murray, whom they had heard of, and all of the weed they had scored. Through the haze of cigarette smoke, I saw the four girls saunter in. The table next to ours had opened and I waved them over.
“Hi girls, we saved a table just for you.” I teased. “That’s so nice of you Sam”. Cindy winked.
The metamorphosis from their pool wear to their club wear, was astounding. The crazy three already looked lit. I could smell the weed. I did a double take when I saw Katie. Her hair was let down and curled, she wore red crystal heart earrings and a touch of makeup. Her dress was fashionably short and classy. She looked like a total doll. I didn’t pay much attention to the others. It was hard not staring at her. She still didn’t look me in the eyes.
“Ladies, please meet the great band, ‘The Kool Knights’”.
“Are you Knights in shining armor?” Beth asked.
“Whatever you wish, m’lady,” John quipped.
Tom winked at me and they all stood up and introduced themselves. “We have to hit it ladies, see you at the next break. I’ll tell the bar to send you a round on me.”
Tom then waved me over and whispered in my ear. “I’m calling you up man.”
What, is he crazy? I was into my fourth drink. They started playing some great dance songs. The girls got up and asked me to dance with them.
“No thanks, maybe later though for sure”.
Katie was quietly observing everything. My inhibitions had disappeared after my last drink. I was compelled to speak to her.
“Do you dance Katie?” Finally she looked my way and smiled.
“I consider myself a very good dancer. I’m selective though. I only dance with a suitable partner.”
That was a wonderfully classy, intelligent response. As she was alone at her table, I moved over next to her.
“Is it okay if I sit with you?” I asked.
“Yes, I was getting a little lonely here,” She grinned.
“You don’t look like the type that stays lonely long. I dig that response about dancing Katie and I totally understand.”
Then I heard Tom make an announcement.
“Folks, we have a guest here from New York. He’s a drummer in a cool band. Come on up here Sam.”
This is what I practice for, what I dream of. This is what I want for my future. I desire to be an entertainer. Here’s my chance. There was a smattering of applause, most were wondering what this amateur would be like. I whispered in Tom’s ear, he thought for a minute and nodded his head.
All the guys left the stage except Bill, the guitar player. I rapped with him for a few moments and sat behind the kit. We did a few warm ups just jamming. When we stopped, Tom turned off all of the lights, except the one spotting the stage. All went silent. Then Bill let out that famous crazy laugh and we started in. It was the “Wipe out” classic by the Surfaris. The same one I did for the camp encore.
This arrangement was great to show drumming and guitar skills and to get the crowd worked up. The energy was inspiring. The three girls and other groovy dancers got up and every inch of the dance floor was hopping. We jammed an additional minute in the middle to keep it going. After five minutes of energy draining drumming, we ended it.
There was a short pause, then everyone went crazy. They clapped and cheered for minutes. I was soaked in sweat. Tom and the boys high fived me and some of the patrons slapped me on the back. At our table, I sat down to catch my breath. Katie was still there by herself. Now, her eyes were not shy anymore. She looked straight at me with those glistening gorgeous hazel eyes and said,
“I don’t say this a lot about anything, but Sam, that was truly amazing!”
“Thank you Katie. It’s taken years of practice, lessons and hard work. I’m happy you liked it.”
The other girls came back and sat with me. They were a totally wild bunch, fueled by alcohol. They were getting in my space. They are shameless flirts, not my type at all. Through the noise and smoke, I kept glancing at Katie and she was looking back. I turned away and I took a deep breath. I downed my drink, then looked her way again, and she was gone. What a bummer. Damn, I’ll bet someone asked her to dance. There had been guys around her the whole time, circling like vultures. I guess I missed that opportunity. It was best that I keep things cool, I guess. Then I felt a tap on my shoulder. I turned and it was Katie, holding out her hand.
‘Would you like to dance now Sam?”
The other girls had looks of shock.
“That would be wonderful, I’d love to Katie.” I said.
She took my hand and I jumped up. She is a classic beauty. She is sexy in a subtle, smoldering way. She had all of the moves. We danced for the rest of the set. There were no slow dances, so I avoided that awkward situation. Sarah is always in the back of my mind, even with all that she has put me through. Katie took my hand again and walked me towards the door. The other girls were partying hard. Flirting with the band and having fun.
“It’s hot and stuffy in here, do you want to take a walk on the beach with me?” She asked. ‘That sounds great, I’ve had enough of this noise.”
The sky was crystal clear with bright stars and a slight breeze. The waning moon was rising above the horizon, reflecting off the ripples of the waves. We quietly walked a while and made small talk. Then we sat on a seaside bench. Her beautiful essence is pure and very distracting. It’s not just her looks, her style or her aroma. She has this magnetic energy that’s really hard to ignore.
“Do you have a girlfriend, Sam?” She said out of the blue.
“Well Katie, it’s complicated right now. At present, it’s hard to say.”
“I get it Sam, I’m in that same place too.”
“Right, she is my first real steady, my first love. For me, it was love at first sight. I think I’m just a safe haven for her, when things don’t go her way. She cheated on me in July and now she wants me back.”
“Oh… I’m so sorry. With mine, it’s becoming a one way street too. I don’t ask much from him, but I’m finding out that his ego is overwhelming.” She offered.
‘What are you studying?” I asked
“Just like you, music is my passion. I’m studying music theory and composition. My college has a wonderful School of Music, Theatre and Dance. I play the guitar also.”
“It’s destiny that we met each other. We need to jam before you go. When are you leaving?” I asked.
“On the second. I’ve got lots of time and that sounds fun Sam. Where are you staying?”
“I have a place to myself across the street on Nettles Island. It’s very cool. My parents are there.”
It was getting late. We could have talked all night. I quietly walked her back to the hotel. We said goodnight and I motored back to my haven. I fell asleep and in my mind, I was holding Sarah in my arms, with the fragrance of Katie’s perfume in my head.
The days flowed by too quickly. I took the boat out on the river a few times, fished a bit, worked out and just relaxed. It does get lonely after a while, without a companion. On Christmas eve, I checked out the beach and the waves looked great. I wanted to body surf again. It’s an amazing experience. As I went past the pool, I didn’t see the band or the girls. I was one with the Atlantic waves for what seemed like hours. All of the stress, angst and fatigue of the year was washed away. I showered at the pool and crashed into a lounge.
“Hey Sam, wake up!” I was awakened by a chorus of voices. “It’s your favorite party girls. We’re back!”
It was the crazy three from the club. “What have you been up to?” giggled Beth.
“Just doin’ chill things. What about you ladies?”
They scored lounges next to me. Sadly, Katie was absent.
“We hit West Palm Beach and stayed with friends there. It was awesome,” answered Cindy.
“We’re having a groovy Christmas eve party in our connecting suites tonight. Rooms 308-311. I would be cool if you could make it,” Beth announced.
It sounded great. I was getting bored socially and anything these guys set up would be a blast. I’ve isolated myself too long.
“Sounds like fun, where’s Miss Katie?” They all laughed a little.
“She’s coming down soon. It seems she is prepping a bit more this week.”
They had their portable cassette player going with a nice playlist. I dozed off again until I heard the click clack of heels approaching. I looked up, trying to use my hands to block out the sun. A sweet figure stood over me.
“Hi Sam, we missed you the last few days.” It was Katie.
She had on a red and white halter bowknot bikini, a sheer white wrap and beach heels..
She smelled like a Pina Colada. She looked like a Playboy Vargas girl. The girls had just brought us some strong Harvey Wallbangers. I had to clear my throat.
“Wow Katie, you must have a hot date?” I smiled.
“Hello to you too Sam. Not yet, but do you think I can score one?”
I just love her fast comebacks and her quick humor. It shows intelligence and spirit.
“All kidding aside Katie, you look really nice, very nice.”
“Thank you sir, I’m happy you noticed,” she winked.
It is surreal to be where I am. Paradise on earth, just freedom, sun, friends and happy energy. I pulled over some umbrellas, as we all had had enough sun. Katie took out a cassette and popped it into the player.
“I hope you like folk music too, Sam,” She asked.
The first song was “Sounds of Silence”. I looked at her in disbelief. “Do you like it?” She asked. I was stunned.
“Ahh.. Katie, are you psychic? It’s a favorite of mine. I actually met them at Easter in New York, thanks to my Uncle Murray. Can you rewind and sing it with me, miss music major?”
“Wow, really? That’s amazing. You want to sing it with me? Hmmm, okay. Let me finish this drink and get some courage.”
I asked the people around if they minded us singing. They all said okay. The play.lever was pushed, and she and I started. It was an immediate synergy. She had a lovely mezzo-soprano voice and perfect pitch. Others around us joined in until it became a group sing-a-long. It was fantastic. We jammed on and off for hours. Then it was time to go.
“We’re having a room party tonight, can you come?” Katie asked.
“The girls told me about it. Thanks for the invite. Do you have someone coming?” I asked. She smiled.
“ Not as yet, but I’m hoping I do.” She teasingly responded.
I was drained. I had a bite with the folks and crashed in my pad again. I jumped awake and it was getting late. I dressed and ran to the phone to call Sarah. We caught up on things and gave each other Christmas wishes. A debate about the girls party was going on in my mind. I wanted to avoid any new drama, but it was Christmas Eve. I was here to meet people. As I approached the hotel elevator, Tom and John were standing there waiting.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays
(Tim Forkes)
“Hey dudes, you goin’ to the girl’s party?” I asked.
“Hey Sammy, yes we are. Also, thanks for the other night, man. It really helped us out. We scored a record $300 in tips. We owe you man.”
“Cool, it was fun. You owe me zero man.”
When we reached the girls floor, the ground was already vibrating. The hotel had supplied a bar and stereo set up. There were people spilling out into the hall. The girls shrieked, when they saw Tom and John. It was a rockin’ party.
Their suites were huge. I would guess 75 people were there. In the second suite is the bar set up and the stereo. I saw Katie surrounded by a group of older guys. I’ve been in denial about how totally attractive she is. She had a short blue halter dress and white heels. She rocked the look.
These thirsty dudes were leaning in on her. They were uncomfortably close and she looked a bit overwhelmed. For some reason I was getting a little jealous. I have to block these new feelings, I should split. Then Beth and Nancy saw me.
“Hey Katie, your man Sam is here.” Nancy shouted.
The guys around her turned towards me. Katie’s whole face lit up with a big smile. That made me feel special. Then she walked over to me.
“I’m so sorry Sam, that’s embarrassing.” Katie said blushing as she approached.
She sure knows how to dress. She’s starting to make me nervous being around her. I just want to be her friend, nothing more. It’s cute to see someone so shy and demure, open up their personality right in front of my eyes.
“That’s cool Katie. I’m flattered they would think that. You look lovely.”
We grabbed some drinks, joined the group and mixed with the crowd. A few joints were passed around and the music started getting more energy. Some of the guys were getting loud and too rowdy. Alcohol and testosterone are a bad mixture. I was talking with Tom, John and Nancy when I saw one of the drunk buffoons grab Katie. He had her cornered and was putting his ugly hands on her. I could tell she was struggling. I just flipped out. I dropped my drink and ran over to her. I grabbed him by the neck and pushed him up against the wall.
“Sir, you need to learn some manners. That’s not the way you treat a lady man!”
I forced my forearm up under his chin and he was choking and gasping for air. Everyone stopped talking and his buddies’ eyes were wide open.
“Don’t do it Sam!” Tom shouted.
“Apologize to the lady, that was rude dude!” I shouted.
“I’m sorry, I’m so sorry,” he choked out.
Tom, John and Katie pulled me off of him.
“ It’s cool Sam, take it easy. We’ve got this. You’d better leave guys, I think your time is up.”
Katie and the girls grabbed me and pulled me aside. “I don’t know if I should thank you or be afraid of you?” Katie whispered. She was trembling.
“I’m sorry Katie, I saw him manhandling you and flipped out. I’ll leave if you want me to.”
“Leave, are you kidding? I need to get you calmed down. Come with me sir!” She ordered.
She is an absolute distraction to me. She ushered me down to her room. She had locked it out from the other party goers. She poured us a drink and the relative calm was welcome.
“Whew, that was crazy. It certainly was memorable.”
‘I hope that’s not all you remember of me. I hate dudes who take advantage of women. They are gross low lifes.”
“Well Sam, you just showed a side of you that’s been hidden. Not that I’ve spent a whole lot of time with you.”
She handed me a rum and coke and a wet cloth for my face. “Again, Katie, I’m really sorry. I hope I didn’t ruin your night.”
“Well…., no one has ever done that for me, Sam. While I’m not cool about fighting, I did like seeing your passion come out. I need to thank you, that was sweet.”
She kissed me on the cheek. It was nice being alone with just her and I. Just getting to know a new friend that has similar interests and desires, is very rare. The talking stopped and we found each other just calmly looking at each other.
“I’m good now, thanks for calming me down. Do you want to go back to the party?” “ Thankfully no. I’ve had enough excitement for a while,” she sighed.
“Katie, I hope you don’t mind me saying this. You have beautiful eyes and the color is striking. I believe they call it Hazel. It’s very rare, just like you. They can be green, gold, brown and then the whole mix. I have even seen them change with your moods. One color when you’re happy, one when you are serious and one when you’re sad.”
“Wow, no one has ever gone that deep about my eyes. I don’t know what to say other than thank you. “
She shyly lowered them away from my gaze .. “I had no idea you were looking into my eyes so closely.”
“As Shakespeare wrote, ‘the eyes are the windows to the soul’. Not that I focus on anyone’s physical attributes but,…If I were to admit it, I’m an eye man first and a leg man second.”
“You’re very funny Sam. Well, how do I rate in those categories?” she questioned.
“You have a hell of a lot more going for you than just those two features. But to answer your question however, you are a perfect 10 in both of them!”
Then, somehow my mouth disconnected from my brain. My adrenaline high was gone.
“Okay, I spilled the beans about my relationship, can you tell me about yours?”
“I’ve been thinking about it since I’ve been here,” her demeanor quickly changed to sadness.
“It boils down to this. I’m artistic, sensitive and a bit intellectual. He’s a jock type, very good looking, but he’s not into a lot of my things,” she lamented.
“I think that can change Katie. If you really like each other, you can adapt to each other’s needs. You can be more into “jock” things and he can move in your direction.”
“I don’t know about that Sam.” She replied.
“Life is sharing great experiences and having someone great to experience them with.
He can be a jock, be artistic in some ways, enjoy music with you and try to be well rounded.” I offered.
She paused. “You mean like you are Sam?”
“ I didn’t mean that Katie, but I do try being in many worlds. It keeps things fresh and interesting.”
“ You try and you succeed Sam. I’m still trying to find the chink in your armor, Mr. White Knight.”
“That was a sweet thing to say, Katie. It does take work, commitment and a lot of practice, but it’s fun doing a variety of things. I’m not perfect in any way. I’ve recently become a bit self-centered since the breakup. I also expect a lot from people. I crave those who are able to converse intelligently about life, current events, music and interesting topics. I have found very few, if any, that are able to meet even a minimum standard,” I added.
“I totally dig what you are saying Sam. It’s even hard being with these girls. They’re nice and fun, but beyond that, there is very little intellectual stimulation. It’s mostly a superficial friendship.”
“Katie, you really are one of those few people who checks all of the boxes.”
Then I saw a guitar in the corner of her suite. It was a new Gibson Hummingbird Koa acoustic guitar.
“Oh my Katie, is that your awesome guitar?” I begged.
“Yes, that’s my Christmas gift from my parents. Amazing right.”
“Oh yes. May I hold it and play a bit?” I asked.
She handed that beauty to me. It played like a dream. We passed it back and forth playing some tunes. The party was getting very loud.
“Not to be forward in any way, but can we pack up the guitar and take it to my pad? I’m not into hearing a lot more of this crazy noise tonight,” I asked.
“ I was just thinking the same thing. Let’s do it!” She responded gratefully.
She grabbed her purse, I scored the guitar and we slid out the side door. I secured the case in the cycle basket and we hopped on the bike. She had to squeeze her arms and legs around me for safety. She had no reservations about pressing up against me. It felt beautiful and somehow natural to me. We drank a few more screwdrivers, played the guitar and sang together for hours. We calmly laid on the two separate pullouts, spoke about life, our hopes and our dreams. We stopped talking and basked in the chill moment.
Waking with a start, it took me a minute to remember where I was. It was 9:15 in the morning. The sun was pouring in the windows. I looked over and Katie was sound asleep, covered in a blanket. She looked so peaceful and beautiful. I hated to wake her. I began singing the Everly Brothers song very softly,
“Wake up little Katie, wake up
“What are you gonna tell your mama, what you gonna tell your pop”
What are you gonna tell your friends when they say Ooh La La.”
She opened her eyes and jumped up.
“Oh my God Sam, I slept here?” she wondered.
“Oh yes you did Katie. I can assure you that nothing happened between us.” I said.
“Ooohhh, I think I have a hangover. What did happen?”she asked.
“Well between the drinks, the singing and the long talk, we put ourselves to sleep.”
Oh no, what will the girls think? I’ve never had this happen with them before.”
“Let’s hurry back. They are all probably crashed out,” I hoped.
We grabbed the guitar, jumped on the cycle, and sped off to the hotel. We tiptoed down the hall and she quietly opened her door. The doors to the other suites were closed.
She whispered, “Oh man, they won’t know. It was a really interesting and nice evening Sam, thank you.”
She turned, hugged me, and kissed me on my forehead. “Let’s do it again sometime,” she smiled.
“Get some rest Katie, Merry Christmas.”
“Ahh yes Sam, Merry Christmas.”
It was certainly a different Christmas being here. We went out for dinner and theneveryone turned in early. I think we were all partied out. I continued my schedule of workouts, tennis and a little golf. I hadn’t seen any of the girls or Katie for days. They had mentioned they were taking another side trip to Miami. It was the 30th already. The surf looked challenging and I wanted one more long surfing run. I was in the waves for another few hours. It is so freeing, riding the raw force of nature and wrestling the waves. As I walked out of the surf, I saw a familiar shape and face, sitting in the sand. It seems Katie had been watching for me for a while.
“You’re a regular dolphin, Sam.” She offered.
“That’s cute Katie, I didn’t know anyone was watching. I do love it though. How was your trip?”
“You can imagine with these girls. We got about four hours of sleep a night. It was a joy watching you in the waves, Sam. You looked so carefree and happy.”
“Are the girls at the pool? I wanted to invite all of you to a New Year’s party, since you’re back. The Knights scored the gig too so you know the music will be cool,” I asked.
“Well…. we were invited to a party in the next hotel by some guys we met. I will let the girls know though.”
“It starts at 9:00 in the clubhouse on Nettles. They’re running a shuttle in from the gate starting at 8:00.”
“I was going to invite you to ours too. But you beat me to it.” she said.
“Thank you, but we’re leaving on the second and I promised my folks I would be there. I’ve spent a very limited time with them. I feel bad about that. My friend said he would set me up with a tux also.”
“You’re a good guy Sam, We’ll see how it goes.”
I didn’t want to leave it at that. “Katie, if somehow I don’t get to see you again, it was really nice meeting you. I totally enjoyed your singing, guitar playing and the conversations we shared. It’s great sharing the love of music with someone. It’s so rare to meet someone who has the depth of thought and intelligence that you have. You’re very special and I hope you have a great life.”
She was silent. I reached out my hand. I think she was stunned by what I told her. She wiped tears from her eyes.
“Ohh my gosh Sam! Wow…, that was really unexpected. I’m totally flattered. I, um….feel the same way about you also. How on earth could she have cheated on you? I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have said that,” she sighed.
“That’s okay Katie, I’ve thought the same thing a million times.”
She took my hand and I pulled her up off of the sand. This time she kissed me on both cheeks. We rapped with the girls by the pool for a while and I walked away.
“Bye bye Sam, I hope we see you again.” Beth shouted.
I didn’t want to look back at Katie. The feelings I had were not supposed to be there. If this was goodbye, I had to leave it at that.
I started packing in the evening. It’s crazy how fast the days went by. I will miss the freedom, the surf and the shouts of, ‘There’s Bobby Douglas’ from next door. I got in many hardcore workouts and met some friends. After another power nap, I went over to the folks place. Mom looked gorgeous in her long black gown. Dad was tipsy as usual but he looked handsome too. It has been so nice to see them in happy moods this trip. I was about to bow out of the party, when Bob Maxwell showed up. He presented me with a fully tricked out tuxedo set up, black shoes, right down to the white rose boutonniere.
“Sam, I think you’re exactly my size, young man. I hope you enjoy it,” he said.
I thanked him and that sealed the exit for my escape. I had to show up now. At 8:30, I walked to the clubhouse, grabbed a drink and headed for the office phone booths.
“Hi Sarah, I’m so happy you answered!”
“Yayyy Sam, I was hoping you would call. How are you?”
“I’ve had a great time, I’ve thought of you a lot.”
“I’ve missed you too Sam, I really have.”
“I wanted to wish you a happy new year now, as I’m going to a party with my parents at the clubhouse. Most of all Sarah, I wanted to sing a song to you. This song was written in 1957 by Ewan MacColl in England. It was for his new love. He sang it to her from across the Atlantic Ocean on a long distance line much like this one. You mean a lot to me.”
“Oh Sam, how sweet !”
“Here goes Sarah,’The first time ever I saw your face, I thought the sun rose in your eyes and the moon and the stars were the gifts you gave….
and the first time ever I lay with you, I felt your heart so close to mine
and I knew our joy would fill the earth. The first time ever I saw your face,
your face, your face.’”
There was silence, I could hear her sobbing. I hoped they were tears of joy.
“Oh Sam, how lovely you are, That was beautiful. I can’t wait to hold you again. You deserve the best and I promise, I will give you that.”
“Have a happy new year Sarah, I’ll be thinking of you.”
It was hard hanging up. I walked back into the party and it was in full swing. Surprisingly, the three girls had arrived and they were livening up the action. I didn’t see Katie and I assumed she was shy about all of this hoopla. I knew how sad she was about her boyfriend, too.
Mom and Dad decided to call it early. I walked out to say goodnight. I watched as Mom took off her heels and handed them to Dad. In her formal evening wear, she dove into one end of the pool. She swam to the other end under water and walked out unscathed, as if nothing happened. She was legendary! That act was surely fueled by too much champagne.
Back at the party, I was getting a little bored. It was hard being alone at times like these. I watched the three girls having a great time. I was missing Sarah, and most of the others were together as couples. I finished my drink, waved goodbye to the band and the girls, and quietly walked out. The evening air was fresh and crisp. The palms were waving in the breeze. As I started down the walking path I heard a voice,
“Excuse me sir, could you help out a young lady?” the voice pleaded.
I turned to see where this mysterious voice was coming from. In the subtle light from the pathway lamps, I saw an image approaching me. A tall, feminine figure, curled hair half up, dressed in a long red sequined gown. The side of her dress had a long slit that reached up to heaven. The clicking sound of her high heels echoed over the pool. Her face was lovely and glowing, sporting a smile from ear to ear. Her fragrance was intoxicating.
“Holy cow Katie, you look gorgeous! You take my breath away! Do you by chance need a date to the dance?” I pleaded.
“I’m not sure, do I kind sir?”
“At your service my lady.” I wanted to play along. She was irresistible .
“My white knight, how classy and handsome you look in your tux.”
Ms. Quiet and demure had transformed into a siren. My face must have been flushed. “Are you okay Sam?” she teased.
She slipped her arm around mine and I ushered us into the party. Her friends, the band and just about everyone’s jaws dropped.
“Lady Katie, I believe that you’re a show stopper!”
I scored us glasses of champagne and I toasted her.
“To the lovely butterfly that has emerged from her cocoon.”
We drank up and she pulled me to the dance floor with her friends. We were having so much fun. After the set, we all sat with the band. Tom told Katie she was smokin’ hot, causing her to blush.
Before they went back up, Katie whispered into John’s ear and he shook his head. Before they began, he made an announcement.
“Our beautiful Katie here is going to sing us a song. You will love it!”
Katie took the mic. “This song is dedicated to a new friend I recently made,”
Bill started on the keyboard and Tom on the drums. It was a new hit by Aretha Franklin written by Carole King. She belted it out with so much soul. The woman I see in her tonight, has been hidden from me until now. She scanned the crowd and when she sang:
“‘You made me feel so good inside … you make me feel so alive … I want to be close to you …. you make me feel, cause you make me feel like a natural woman.’”
She stared right at me and smiled. It was thrilling to see such talent.
“Katie, do you know how great you are? I compete in concerts with highly talented singers and you are in a league of your own.” I gushed.
“That’s so nice for you to say. I do it out of love …. for music.”
When one of the girls asked me to dance, I laughed as Katie shouted “no way!” and pushed her away. The champagne had taken away any shyness or inhibitions she may have had.
As midnight approached, with our fifth glass of bubbly, we toasted everyone. When the balloons and confetti dropped, without hesitation, this once reserved young lady pulled me close and kissed me for what seemed like minutes. She was so warm, gentle and sweet to hold during the last slow dance. It was the best New Year’s party ever.
Everything broke up about 1:15. I grabbed a bottle and we walked together hand in hand to my place, laughing and singing all the way. I lit a Christmas candle and turned on the radio to KFUN, the hip Miami top 40 station. They were playing some awesome tunes. We sat on the pull out bed, filled our glasses and softly sang to the music. For reasons I cannot fathom, I asked her a question,
“Did you speak with your boyfriend tonight?” I asked.
She went silent for a long time. I was killing her buzz.
“Yes, we talked for quite a while. He was at a loud party though.”
“How did the talk go?” I was still wrecking her mood.
“Sam, I don’t think you can really expect to change someone’s basic traits. He is what he is.”
“I’m sorry you’re not happy Katie. You are a sweet, lovely woman. You deserve better. You deserve the best!”
I totally stepped out of line saying that. The Champagne was talking, but I meant every word. She is special in so many ways. She then stood up, turned and looked into my eyes.
“You are so, so right Sam, I deserve someone like you!”
She took the glass from my hand, sat on my lap and kissed me passionately. I didn’t resist. I had been attracted to her from day one. She slowly unbuttoned my shirt and caressed my chest. Then she stood up again. In the flickering candle light, I watched as she unhooked her gown and slowly let it slide down her curves to the floor. She was as perfect as I imagined. I took her in my arms and placed her on the bed.
We laid together slowly learning the contours of each other’s forms. No other garments were removed. No words were spoken. We communicated through our fingertips. We shared intimate tenderness. We made love, not the lustful kind. It was caring, appreciative and understanding love. I think we were both touch starved. We intimately connected to each other’s souls. Warm touches and kisses that filled the empty voids. We held onto each other for dear love and fell blissfully asleep in each other’s arms
In the bright new morning, we awakened refreshed and complete. We traded phone numbers, addresses and hugs. We both knew we were returning to very different lives. We said goodbye, with our hearts warmed and with sweet feelings to always remember. For me, it was the perfect completion of my own personal renaissance. She had lovingly made me feel whole again.
