* * *
"Guess she's working at the Taj tonight," Ken shrugged, when no
one responded to his calls. He led Maddy into the nicely furnished, cozy
living area, where she observed with admiration the built-in bookshelves,
modern entertainment center and rich leather couch and loveseat. There
were some family photos hanging on the cream-colored walls, including
one of Ken looking all handsome and serious in his Navy uniform.
"My gosh, look at you!" she said, smiling.
"Oh yeah, that's me, sailor man," he laughed.
"Ken, you should be very proud of yourself," she admonished him. "I
am," she added softly.
"Thank you, sweetheart," he replied, kissing her on the head. "Hey,
you thirsty? Want a beer-uh, soda?" he asked, remembering her distaste
for pretty much any kind of alcohol.
"Water?" she asked as she followed him into the eat-in kitchen,
adorned with granite countertops and white appliances.
Built just over a year ago, everything in the home was practically right
out of the showroom. Maddy was in awe of Ken's housekeeping habits,
which shattered the myth of the carefree bachelor. That he truly took
pride in his living space was evident from the moment they pulled into his
driveway. A small, well-manicured lawn led to a short walkway, framed by
rows of impatiens; two hanging flower pots on either side of the front
door held more of the same red, pink and white flowers. Upon entering,
the home had a neat, yet welcoming aura, offering a perfect haven after a
long, stressful day.
"I think I've got some bottled water for you, sweetheart," he
promised, scouting out the fridge. "You know, instead of a beer, I think
I'll have one, too," he said, pulling out two bottles of Poland Spring. She
reached up to kiss him as he handed one to her.
"C'mon, I want to show you something," he announced, taking her
hand and leading her up the stairs.
He opened the door to reveal his pride and joy, and the centerpiece of
his bedroom-his king waterbed.
"Very nice!" Maddy approved, smiling. Suddenly she felt a bit
nervous. Although she trusted Ken, the thought of the two of them alone
in such a provocative setting gave her pause. Attuned to her vibe, Kenny
gave her a quick kiss on the cheek and assured her his intentions were
totally honorable. Pulling some photo albums down from the headboard
shelves, he invited her to see some pictures.
"They're from my Navy days," he explained. With that he propped up
some pillows and sat upright on the bed, then patted the space next to
him for her to do the same. She smiled in response to his mischievous
grin, but hesitated for a moment.
"Madeline, I promise you, I won't try anything," he coaxed her. "I
know what kind of girl you are, and it's such a nice change. Please! I
promise I won't hurt you." His azure eyes pleaded with her earnestly,
prompting her to feel somewhat sheepish for doubting him. She finally
acquiesced and joined him on the bed.
"Whoa!" she laughed, trying to get used to the motion. "I have to
admit I've never been on one of these!"
"Then you don't know what you've been missing, girl!" he joked,
placing an arm securely around her. She snuggled in close to him as they
pored over photo after photo, each with its own unique tale to tell.