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Love is Like the Bloom of a Flower, but Love only Dies, when You forget to, a Flower always change, so Love will too. 🌸

Rosaceae Rosa. (x).

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Fall for it - End of march

Friday afternoon after work I go to the supermarket to buy ingredients for dinner. Today there is a sake bowl and we have run out of leeks and soy sauce. At the checkout I have a little chat with the cashier and wish him a nice weekend, and then quickly go purposefully to our apartment, which is a five-minute walk away. A message interrupts my pace. Endrik writes that he only has a meeting and then comes home. Suddenly I bump into something or someone. „Oh, sorry,“ I say automatically and look up. Time stands still for a short moment. I look into his crystal clear eyes, which briefly stick to me. Then he turns his face away and continues talking on the phone. His dark hair is tied into a short braid. He appeases the incident with a hand gesture. Wow, I’m not that careless otherwise.

At home I hang jacket and bag on the wardrobe and put the shopping in the kitchen. My playlist sounds from the speakers of the music box. After putting on something comfortable, I start cooking. I have already mastered this dish from the ff.

Just when I activate the keep warm function of the cooking surface, a message appears on my mobile phone. >> Completely forgotten, today is the anniversary of my company. Don’t wait for me. << So eat again without Endrik. Before I put down the cell phone, it rings. „Hey Amy, we have private event today and need every free employee.“ „I’m coming. I’m on my way,“ I answer, hang up and sigh. As if I hadn’t already worked enough today, but I like to do it for Leno.

When I arrive, I fly over the tables with an analytical look. All are occupied. I quickly throw the apron over and tie my hair into a braid. Then I take a tray from the counter and start serving the guests. My eye catches Endrik’s face. He sits at a table with three other colleagues. A female colleague sits too close to him for my standards. I try to avoid the table and ask another waitress to serve it. So it’s the company he works for that celebrates its anniversary here.

Even more annoyed by today, I try to hide it and to serve the guests professionally according to the best skills. „Oh, Amy, I’m sorry, but I urgently have to go home to my children. The little one got a fever and it continues to rise. Can you please continue to serve table 7?”, a colleague asks me and runs past me. I call her afterwards that I will do that and go straight to the said table to ask if the guests would like anything. I notice that the five people are visibly different from the rest in the room and that this is the boss level.

That doesn’t change my behavior, because I treat everyone equally, no matter how poor or rich someone is. But then our eyes meet again and I remember the incident from earlier. His eyes also reveal that he recognizes me. I take their orders and forward the note.

After I bring the food and drink, he asks me for my name and when I get off work.

„Amy serves you tonight and I’m off work when the last guest has left and the lights go out.“ He nods gratefully for my answer and I go about my work. When the bill is requested, he tells me to ask my supervisor to get off work. I raise an eyebrow and answer that I can’t promise anything. A little surprised about this, I go to Leno, who is standing in the kitchen today, and tell him about it. „Ah, no problem. Keane and I are good friends. Please say hello to him for me, because I don’t have a free minute here today. „I nod, take off the apron and throw it in the laundry basket, release the braid from my hair and go back to table 7, where the mysterious Keane is waiting for me.

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I sit opposite him, since the place has just become free and the other three remaining ones also say goodbye and leave. In general, it has become quieter in the restaurant and Endrik is also breaking with his colleagues, putting an arm over his “female colleague“ over her shoulder. My eyes nerrow briefly, but I shake off the anger. „We seem to have a mutual friend,“ I begin the conversation with Keane. „Leno is a long-time friend. At the time, I suggested that he should open a restaurant, because he prepares excellent food.“ „Wow.“ „So I don’t want to waste your valuable time and get straight to the point, Amy.“ I straighten up and I’m curious what’s coming next. „I’m looking for a female companion for my free time. You have to know that the escorts have become too boring for me and after a failed, childless marriage I have no desire to enter into a new relationship. Please be my daughter, who I never had.”

„Wow.” I have to digest that first. „Is that serious?“ „Yes, why should I bother you with lies. If you spend 60 hours a week working, you look for a little relaxation and the joys of life in your free time. If you share this with someone, it doubles. „So you’re a SugarDaddy and I’m supposed to be your SugarBabe?“ „I haven’t looked at it that way yet, but ... Now that you say it, it’s comparable to that, yes.“ „I don’t really have the time for that and my friend won’t be thrilled about it.“ „Please call him.“ I take my phone out of my pocket and tap on his contact. At the other end of the line, the voicemail sounds. „I’m not for sale, to make that clear, certainly not for any intimate activities.“ He seems amused.

„I’m just asking you if you want to be an escort for me. I won’t buy you anything if you don’t want to and I’m not interested in, as you call it, intimate activities with you. Let’s lead our relationship on a father-daughter level, because you look like you could really be my daughter.“ „You don’t look as old as my dad.“ „Thank you for this flattering compliment, but I’m forty-eight.“ I look at him in disbelief. He doesn’t look older than mid-thirties. „Okay, okay. Let’s set up a few rules.” „Oh, I love that we get personal and draw up a contract.”

He pulls out a ballpoint pen and a folder with empty paper from his briefcase and hands me both. „Please, write down your demands and then I will complete it with mine.“ While I write down my rules, I spell them out loud. „Our father-daughter thing remains on a platonic level. Physical contact is only allowed if it is appropriate. Holding hands and kissing on cheek are allowed, all other touches and or intimacies are prohibited. You always have to ask before you want to do anything with me. I always have the opportunity to make a decision. It is not asked for personal information, but it is allowed to address, share and or disclose personal things.” „I like that Amy.” He takes the A4 sheet and completes the list with his demands.

„You call me Daddy and I call you babe. You don’t fall in love with me. I’ll give you a smartphone with my number stored on it. We only contact each other via this mobile phone. If one of us breaks the rules, the contract is void and the contact is broken off.” We both sign this sheet and he puts it back in his pocket. Can I drive you home, babe?“ „With pleasure Daddy, I don’t have a car and the bus only runs every hour at this time.“

We left the restaurant and he directs me to a black limousine. „Thanks for stopping by, Daddy.“ I can’t help but smile. I didn’t even call my own father that. We sit together in the back seat and are driven. „At our next meeting you will receive the phone. Please always carry it with you, babe.“ „How could I leave the house without it, Daddy.“ He must also smile slightly during our role-play. „Did I estimate your age correctly earlier, babe?” „How young do you estimate me, Daddy?” „Mid-twenties, babe.”

„Daddy is good at guessing. I’m twenty-six.” The car stops and he gets out to open the door for me. „Thank you, Daddy.“ „See you soon babe.“ He gives me a goodbye kiss on the cheek and gets back in. One thing I have to give him. He has class and his perfume is bewitching. I can’t wait to tell Bamika about it. Endrik is not yet home when I enter our apartment. So I make myself comfortable in bed and text back and forth with Bamika. She warns me that Keane could turn out to be a psychopath. However, I have a strong intuition and it tells me that he has an honest skin. We wish each other a good night and then I process what I experienced in my dreams.

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The doorbell of the front door knocks me out of my sleep. The sun is blinding and with half-closed eyes I sip to the door. „Hello?” „Good morning my babe.” „What are you doing here?” He clears his throat. „Good morning, Daddy.“ „Better babe. Are you hungry?” „To be honest, you just woke me up, but yes, I’m sure I’ll make myself breakfast right away when I’ve freshened myself up, Daddy.”

„May I invite you to breakfast babe? You don’t have to prepare your own food, especially after yesterday’s hard working day.“ „Give me fifteen minutes, Daddy.“ „Give yourself as much time as you need, babe. I’m happy to wait for you.” I hang the receiver in his recess and rush nervously into the bathroom. I didn’t expect that, but I don’t reject an invitation and he seems to have good taste when he goes out to eat at Leno’s. I quickly dress up after the morning routine, hang my bag over my shoulder and pick up my jacket. Keane greets me like yesterday’s farewell and closes the car door for me. When he sits next to me, he hands me the announced cell phone. I thank you and put it in my bag.

We stop at a classy cafe where I once helped out. We order a brunch menu. What can I say, it tastes delicious. Here the juice is always freshly squeezed and it is important to seasonal food. „I helped out here and almost forgot what a fancy café this is, Daddy.” „I’m glad you like it, babe.” „Thanks for the delicious breakfast, Daddy.” „It was a pleasure for me, babe.”

After the brunch we go to the mall, which I have only seen from the outside so far, because the shops here do not correspond to my price range. He tries on new shirts and suits. I can decide which ones he should buy. After that, accessories are selected and paid for. Then we go to the „Home“ department and I can help him with the color decision, among other things, of ceilings and curtains. Time flies. „Do you need anything else, babe?“ I shake my head. It would only be noticeable if I suddenly came home with high-quality things. „May I dress you for my house? If you’re visiting, you’ll have clothes to change, babe. You don’t bother me with that either. I have an empty guest room waiting to be inaugurated.” As if he could read my mind. „If you insist, Daddy.“ „You would make me very happy with that, babe.“ He gives me his hand and we stroll from one fashion store to the next. His hand looks huge compared to mine and despite its strong appearance, it feels warm, soft and supple and I like to hold it. This feeling gives me the security that has been missing in my life for a long time since I moved in with Endrik.

„Now you have something ready for every occasion, babe.“ „Thank you, Daddy. That’s very generous of you.“ „I like to do that for you, A- Babe.“ I didn’t consciously notice that he almost said my name instead of the role name. „I still have a massage appointment, babe. I hope you don’t mind that I also booked one for you.“ „Who says no to a massage?“ I ask rhetorically and we go to the car that drives us to a hotel.

Our two massages take place in the same room. As we lie down, two ladies come into the room and start the treatment. I start to purr like a kitten. It is the first time I have received such a professional massage. One or another sounds cannot be suppressed. I feel that Keane is amused about it and laughs to himself.

After this divine full body massage, we shower the excess oil from the skin in separate cabins. The partitions of the shower cells are made of frosted glass and the silhouette of his body can be guessed. God! Why am I just looking there?! I leave the shower and throw the bathrobe over to go to the changing room. „Do we go to the sauna, babe?” „Don’t you do that before a massage, Daddy?” „Before, after, does that play a big role?” „I think so, Daddy.” „Sorry, Babe. Then please wait for me in the anteroom. I’ll come after.” „It’s okay. I’ll be with you, Daddy.” He smiles at me and we go to the saunarium. There each of us get a towel. I ask for a second one and put it on under the bathrobe before I scrape it off. Keane also has one to cover his best piece. Together we relax in an 85° degree Celsius hot aroma oil sauna, which has a built-in light color change. „May I ask you, when was the last time you could relax like that, babe?“ „Hmm. It’s been one or two years and that wasn’t nearly as good as it is today. I don’t know how I can thank you for that, Daddy.“ „Your presence alone is thanks enough, Bae.“ „Bae?“ „Yes, is that okay if I say it like that?“ I nod and put my head in the back of my neck, my arms placed on the next higher bench.

In the locker room I look briefly at my cell phone and read a message from Endrik, which he wrote after two attempted calls. >> I’m on the road with my buddies and it’s getting late. <<

In the reception area of the spa, Keane is waiting for me with a smile on his face. Is it the relaxation or is he really so happy about spending time together? „Do you already feel such a hunger as I do?“ I nod and we take the elevator to the rooftop, where a small, cozy bar is waiting for us, which surprisingly also offers delicious dinner menus. „I have noticed how soft your face has become and that you generally radiate a less tense posture, Daddy,“ I say while we eat. „Thank you Bae, the treatments reduced the stress from my exhausting working days.“ „I’m happy about that, Daddy.“ He smiles at me and takes a sip of his drink. „I also noticed that your tension has peeled off, Bae.“ „Yes, I owe that to you, Daddy.“ „Cheerse, Bae.“

The glasses are clinking and when the bill is paid, we get into the car in the parking garage and drive onto the busy street. „Is your friend already waiting impatiently at home for you, Bae?“ This question surprises me and he immediately apologizes, for this intimate question and that it is against our agreement. „No, I find this very attentive of you and considerate towards my boyfriend, but no, he went out with his friends and will not wait for me, Daddy.“ „How do you feel about it, Bae?“ „Hm, I’m used to it by now, Daddy.“ His face tells me that he wants to understand me better.

„It hasn’t been going the way it should in our relationship for a while.“ „Bae, every relationship is individual. The most important thing is that they both feel comfortable in it.” My cheeks are getting warm. Is that the drink from earlier or am I starting to feel attracted to him? „Yes, Daddy, that’s it. I don’t feel comfortable in the relationship with him anymore.” „Like a stick that has fallen into the spoke of a moving wheel of a carriage.” „Like a carriage that threatens to sink in the moor.”, I correct him. „Bae, you can also inaugurate my guest room.”

I nod and clenche my hands into fists. He extends his hand and places it on my clenched fists, which loosen again after a few breaths. Then he withdraws his hand and leaves his soothing warmth. - From the parking garage it goes up with the elevator to his apartment, which is on the 7th floor. He gives me a short tour, which ends in the guest room. „Good night Bae,“ he says and kisses my forehead. „Night, Daddy.“

The next morning, breakfast at the bed wakes me up. Orange juice, croissants with jam and nougat cream sweeten the day. After freshening up in the bathroom, Keane just came back. „Did you like breakfast, Bae?“ „Thank you, yes Daddy. What about you?“ „I just come from my workout. Do you have time for us again today, Bae?” It doesn’t take long for my answer. With him, life feels so carefree and free. In his presence I feel in good hands and it also seems to bring out his soft side. „Is there anything in your head, Daddy?” He smiles and asks me to get ready for a trip.

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We lick the ice cream, nibble on the waffle and when we clean our mouths with the napkin, he suggests visiting a friend’s gallery, where an exhibition on the subject of the sea and garbage is currently being presented. “Are you interested in art, Bae?” „I’m not averse to it. I used to visit cultural institutions often, but then Endrik came into my life.”

“I understand, then it will be nostalgic for you. But I have one more request for you. When we’re there, don’t talk. Be my doll, Bae. “May I know why, Daddy?” “Franco is... special. So please let me talk, even if you’re approached, Bae.“ „But only because it’s you, Daddy.” I hook myself to Keane and snuggle my face to his shoulder, looking into his eyes with a wide grin. Oh, there it is again, this sparkle in his eyes and my heart makes a sentence. I’m getting away from him, to be honest maybe a little too fast. He turns away from me for a moment and turns up his nose. „Then go, Daddy.“ As if nothing had happened, I’m back in my role and walk with him holding hands to the car.

Franco, Keane’s friend, who owns the gallery, greets us personally and scans me from head to toe, visibly impressed by who Keane has chosen as his role partner. „Who did we bring here, Keane? That I meet you again in female company. It must be a very special piece of jewelry.” „Indeed, that’s her, my bae.“ „She’s really competing with my Jack.“ „No way, Bae doesn’t share the bed with me.“ A little quieter I hear Franco say „Not yet.“ and he puts a finger on his lower lip. „All right, then enjoy the exhibition and have a nice stay. We can talk again later in private Keane.“ He winks at him. Keane smiles at his statement. „There’s nothing you can’t say in front of Bae.“ „Yes, if that is so. How much does she cost?” Please what?! I’m not a work of art that he can buy himself and put it in the corner! „She’s unsaleable. I can’t even buy Bae.” He looks at me with a gentle smile on his lips. „Too bad, she would have made a good figure at the next lively art party.“ „Oh, I’ll take your word for it, Franco.“ „All good.“ Franco claps his hands. „My Jack is waiting for me by the pool.“ He throws air kisses at us and swings his hips as he walks out of the gallery. I take a deep breath and force myself to grin. „Please don’t pretend, baby.“ “Can I talk again, Daddy?” „I’ve already missed the sound of your voice, Bae.“ “A lively art party?” „Yes, women and men are exhibited like a work of art and some of them can be purchased and taken with you.“ „Modern slavery, then.“ „If you want to handle it that way, yes, it’s quite comparable to it. You would be expensive for me if I had to bid on you, Bae.“ “I’ll take that as a compliment, Daddy.”

After the exhibition, we take the limousine to the jet and take off. „Thank you, Bae.“ „But Daddy, that’s what I’m here for.“ „No, my thanks come from the heart.“ „I didn’t doubt that either there…“ He gets up and goes towards the board kitchen. And I already had concerns that I would fall out of the role and endanger our relationship. Keane comes back with a tray, on which our dinner is served, with a large glass of mixed cocktail. „Bon Apetit mona more, Bae.“ „Oh my God, thank you Daddy.“

When we land, Keane drives me home. To be honest, I already long for our togetherness. But the week starts again and maybe we’ll see each other soon. Crazy, like a man I’ve only known since Friday, with whom I’m in a dubious role-playing relationship, touches my heart deeper than the almost three-year relationship I’m currently in. Through Keane, I really realize what is between Endrik and me - a gap.

Keane gives me a goodbye kiss on the cheek and his perfume still hangs in my nose as I walk up the steps to my apartment. When I open the door, Endrik is waiting for me in the kitchen. The light of the extractor hood is the only thing that illuminates the apartment. „Why are you coming late? Do you know that I have to work early tomorrow?!” „I thought you were already asleep.“ „How am I supposed to sleep when I don’t know where you are?“ I look at my phone. No new messages have been received. „You could have asked.“ “I have to ask you?! Please sleep on the couch. Thanks for nothing, Amy!” He goes into the bedroom and slams the door. I don’t understand his anger and get ready for bed to sleep on the couch.

The week goes like before Keane’s existence. Work, come home and eat, fall asleep on the couch, go for a walk in the park on Tuesdays, exercise with Bamika on Wednesdays, who asks for news about Keane and starts to envy me. But the luxury life is just the icing on the cake. He was lonely and his company reminds me of what I lacked: security and freedom. Like a bird’s nest that offers protection and to which you return all year round. Bamika admires my depth and teases me that I shouldn’t fall in love with him because the rules forbid it. My faint smile shows that I know it all too well.

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On Friday, about three quarters of an hour before closing time, just when I disconnect my new second cell phone from the charging cable, Keane appears in the café and orders an Irish coffee by my colleague, which I prepare especially lovingly for him. He waits until I get off work and stand at his table. “I could drink coffee and eat cake here all day, Bae.” “We even offer bagels and sandwiches for breakfast, Daddy.” My colleague interrupts us briefly when he wishes us a nice evening as he passes by.

„Bae, do you want to go on a second round of cultural outing?“ I sit opposite him and put my chin in the palm of my hand, the other hand in the crook of my elbow. „What are we seeing this time, Daddy?“ “Il Tramonto – a play, or rather an operetta, Bae. I have two tickets for the balcony with the best view of the actors and guests.” I pretend to think about it and look at his hand on the table, which gently rocks up and down with the index finger, visibly nervous. „How could I say no to such a substantial evening, Daddy.“

We stop at his house for a moment, where I freshen up and notice that my period is over. Thank God! Sometimes I curse to be allowed to bleed. I put on the dress placed on the guest bed with shoes and jewelry, and I need help from Keane when putting on the necklace. „Thank you, Daddy.“ „Not for that. Please wear this perfume, Bae. It will smell breathtaking on you.” „It’s done, Daddy.“

The drive to the theater doesn’t take long. After a champagne reception we went to the balcony. It has generously upholstered seats and a side table with drinks, as well as a fruit bowl to offer. The operetta il tramonto is about a young man who travels abroad to see his childhood love again. To his disappointment, she died at the birth of her first child and this child came to the orphanage because his father went to war. He searches for this child for years and as if by a miracle they meet on a marketplace. The child has grown into a young woman, just turned eighteen and works on a flower stand. She looks like her mother.

This piece surprisingly takes me emotionally. Keane seems to notice this and grabs my hand. I can’t hold back the tears as they sail together to his homeland across the sea. “This scene has it in it every time, Bae. “His hand, which gives warm security, awakens goosebumps that spread on my arm and I take a handkerchief as a pretext to escape this situation. However, Keane comes before me and takes his handkerchief to dab away my tears. We look into each other’s eyes and you could make a light bulb shine between us, so electrifying is the atmosphere. His eyes flashed again and my heart pounded against my chest.

Suddenly, the whole room claps. The performance is over. We stand up and clap. „Oh, now I didn’t notice how it turned out, Daddy.“ “One more reason to repeat the evening, Bae. Do you want to go home?” „No, seeing me in these clothes would make Endrik freak out.“ „The way you say it in a rather negative way, I’ll let you change clothes at my home, Bae.“ “That’s a good idea, Daddy.”

Arriving at Keane’s house, we sit down on the balcony to drink a glass of his favorite wine before we take off our evening wardrobe. He gives me a blanket when a light wind comes up and smells on my neck, where I have applied the perfume, among other things. „I completely missed that opportunity earlier, Bae. This scent suits you like a second skin.” I feel flattered and watch him light the tablefire.

The fire makes me sleepy and my eyelids get heavier and heavier. I hear Keane asking me how I found the operetta, but there is no answer. I’m dreaming.

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When I wake up, I’m lying in the guest bed and the sun is just rising. I tap through the apartment into the bathroom and only notice sitting on the toilet that the shower is on. The steam envelops everything in a shallow fog, but I still recognize its shilouette. It seems to me as if I’m still dreaming and when I dry my hands, he reaches out his hand to me. “A shower in the morning is so good, Bae. Come under it.” “Thanks, but I’m not the morning showerer, Daddy.” He goes a step forward and covers his p*nis with a towel, loosely wrapped around his hips. Then he grabs my hand and kisses it gently. „Well, you didn’t have a chance to shower in the evening yesterday, Bae.“ He goes out of the bathroom and lets the shower run. So I stand underneath and brush my teeth. When I get out, I take the towel, which is handy in a wall depression.

Coming out of the bathroom, I see the dining table covered. We eat together. “Would you like to be taken home after breakfast, Bae?” I shake my head. “Let’s do something, Daddy.” His face is visibly beaming with joy. “I was hoping you’d say that. In two weeks I have vacation and still have to make various preparations. I want you to accompany me, Bae.” „I‘d love to, daddy.“

Before we leave, I look at my phone again. No news. Endrik didn’t answer my text message from yesterday, which I wrote to him in the car. >> Tomorrow date night? <<

We fly back to the sea and walk along the harbor, where he reveals his yacht to me. He wants to check if everything is ready for his vacation in two weeks. “Before it starts, I test my Lucia with a test drive. Are you seaworthy Bae?” I have to laugh at the question. „Oh captain, I’m a mermaid and I have to go back into the sea.“ He also has to laugh. „Then I start the engine and drive the anchor in.“

The test drive stops so far from the shore that you can only guess it, as the seagulls draw their circles there. With the best weather we spend the day swimming, sunbathing, eating fruits and siping cocktails. Just as we sit quietly together, I have an idea. „Let’s play a game, Daddy. „Now I’m curious what’s coming, Bae.“ „Never have I ever had a one-night stand.“ He raises an eyebrow. „If you’ve already had one, you have to take a sip, Daddy.“ „And if not, Bae?“ „Then you have your five lives left.“ „Good.“ He grins. „Never have I ever faked an orgasm.“ I sip on the glass. „Ouch, Bae.“ „Sometimes you want to get it over quickly, Daddy.“ „Then the sex wasn’t worthy of orgasm either, Bae.“

„Never have I ever broke up.“ He’s drinking a sip. „If something doesn’t work anymore, then you should be able to end it.“ „My daddy is wise.“ He smiles, puts down his glass and clasps his hands together. He looks deeply into my eyes. „Never have I ever really loved my partner.“ „Wow, I think I need a new drink.“ I take a big sip and try to control myself. „The game amuses me,Bae.“ I grin nervously. „Then we’ll move on. Never have I ever cheated on my partner.“ „Bae is loyal. I really appreciate that.” „Never have I ever wanted to have children.“ I answer this statement with a sip. His eyes flashed. Was this question just a test?

„Never have I ever stripped for anyone.“ He sips at his glass and smiles. „Daddy is a very wild one.“ „I was young too, Bae“ „Never have I ever masturbated.“ My heart beats faster, I take a sip. Keane licks his lips. I counter: „Never have I ever used sex toys for satisfaction.“ „What’s your hands for, Bae?“ He still drinks a sip. My eyes widen briefly. „I‘ve never fallen in love with someone I can’t love.“ A hit in the bulleye. But then I recognize my escape route. „You didn’t formulate the question correctly and with that I don’t have to answer it Daddy.“ „Oh Bae, you’re so smart.“ I bite my lower lip, he licks his lips again. Before the situation gets even hotter, I put down my glass and jump into the sea. Cooling down is good for me.

When the sun goes down we drive back ashore. Since I left my bag in the car, I quickly check my messages. Bamika and Endrik wrote to me. >>Girls‘ night tomorrow? << >>We need to talk Amy! << I answer >>Very gladly ;-p<< and >>Yes, we have to Endrik. <<

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Arrived at Keane’s home, dinner is waiting for us and classical music is playing in the background. „I liked your game very much, Bae.“ „I’m only too happy to believe that, D.“ „Oh, what a nice abbreviation. D can stand for many things, for example Di-“ I clear my throat and drink something. „If you knew, D. I still have a more in stock, but we’ll save them for next time.“ „It sounds like music to my ears. If you come on vacation with me, we can pick up where we left off today, Bae.” „Only with a different game, D.“ „As you wish.“ He gets up and comes up to me. „Can I ask for a dance, Bae?“ I put my hand in his and we seem to float above the ground. His guidance gives me precise instructions, which my feet easily implement.

This man makes me see more and more facets of myself. Do I dream? If yes, I don’t want to wake up. The distance between us is getting smaller and smaller until we feel our mutual breathing. His whole body radiates this security. I can’t help but snuggle my head against him. „Are you getting tired, Bae?“ I’m scared. „No, I, um, my head -„ „It’s okay. Let’s sit down.” We sit next to each other on the Big Sofa and observe the flames of the wide wall fireplace. I become very dreamy and lean on his shoulder. His body tenses, but he doesn’t say anything. Maybe he thinks I’m asleep. Slowly his tension subsides and he puts a hand on my lap. „D, with you I feel safe and free, like a bird whose cage is open, but which is not willing to fly out. When I’m with you, I forget and live. You gave me back the meaning of life.” He grabs my hand.

There it is again, this warmth of his gentle and yet strong hand. I look up, but his gaze is directed forward, to the painting above the fireplace, which shows a floodplain landscape. I can’t stop looking at him until he turns to me and looks into my eyes. „At that time I am -„ He puts his other hand to the edge of my face and says: „I recognized you as soon as you entered the restaurant. I thought that had to be fate and our paths should cross. I also wanted to apologize to you, but was too busy with work. We were both full of suffering. I noticed that that evening and look at us now.”

My heart beats loudly again and I’m waiting to feel his lips on mine. But he lowers his hand and stands up. “Let’s go to sleep. You have to be home after breakfast tomorrow.” I nod, still paralyzed from just now and let me help to stand up. When we are standing at the bedroom doors, he wishes me a good night and goes into his room, leaving the door a gap open. I look at my door and back at his. That vibe between us sits in my bones and my muscles twitch. My body wants to follow him. My mind raises my hand on the handle to the guest room. My gaze wanders back to the gap. I exhale audibly and frighten myself by my sighs. „Come here if you can’t sleep yet Bae“ My feet are moving.

„Be so kind and close the door behind you Bae - come and sit down. What’s stopping you from sleeping.” „You, D.“ An eyebrow rises, followed by a smile, which he apparently cannot control. „Did I say something that upsets you, Bae?“ „Yes. I mean no it is...” He moves closer and leans forward. I look at the duvet. He takes my chin and asks me to look at him. „Please don’t look so sad. What can I do to make you smile again, Bae?” This statement alone brings it back. „Ah. I realize you can’t sleep alone tonight. Sleep with me if you want, Bae.” My heart is bouncing inside and I don’t recognize myself. I slip under his blanket and snuggle up to him. He puts his arm around me and kisses my head. I close my eyes and begin to dream.

The next morning I wake up and see him standing next to the edge of the bed. „Continue sleeping. I’m doing my sport and then take a shower.“ My eyes close again on their own and open again at the smell of pastries.

The door is a crack. I step out, see a person in the kitchen preparing the food and rush into the bathroom. The shower is still running and after going to the toilet I take off my clothes and go into the shower, knowing full well that I find him there.

[ajkuerschner]

When Keane turns around, his surprise is written on his face, but it pleases him and he gently pulls me to him so that the water can wet my skin.

We stand close to each other. I feel his excitement. „Can I foam your back, Bae?“ I nod, take my hair aside and enjoy how the sponge runs down my body in snake lines and covers my buttocks with foam. Then Keane turns me and foams my décolleté, the bridge between the breasts, slides down to the belly, to stop just above the pubic bone. „Thank you. Now it’s my turn,“ I say with a smile and take the sponge out of his hand. „May I?“ He nods with a wide grin and turns around. I also gently go down his back, kose his buttocks and turn him to me to foam the front. I go a little further down, the inner thighs, while he can’t suppress a moan. That turns me on and I let the sponge play around his privates. Keane takes the sponge and throws it away, grabs both my hands and pushes me against the wall, careful that it doesn’t feel painful.

Then he lets her go and our faces touch with the tips of our noses. The water is dripping down on us. We breathe in. My hands are on his hips. He’s imitating me. Keane allows one of my hands to grasp his shaft and I caress him. He starts moaning again and takes my hand aside. „Babe I want to spoil you if I may.“ „Please, Daddy, yes.“ Keane kisses my neck. One hand grabs my upper arm and slides slowly down the other plays around my labia.

My body vibrates. His lips wander to my breasts and his tongue moistens my nipples. I can’t stop myself anymore and start moaning „Oh babe, I like to hear that.“ The moaning becomes more and more intense as I turn off my head and surrender to this moment. For a long time, no one touched me like he does. „May I penetrate you before you come, Bae?“, he asks with his mouth to my ear. „Y-yes.“, I bring out trembling. He lifts me up.

I sling my legs around him and he penetrates. We merge, are a rhythm, moan. My arms wrap around his neck. His lips stick on mine and when we reach the climax at the same time, we look at each other. Oh my God! An indescribable moment. An extremely satisfying feeling. My feet touch the ground again. I’m slightly wavering. Keane holds me. We smile at each other and he turns off the water. Did this really happen? He hands me a bathrobe and hangs his towel around his hips. “Let’s eat babe. That made me pretty hungry.” „Me too, Daddy...“

At the breakfast table there is a satisfied silence. „Babe“ I look at him „You turned my head.“ „You mine too.“ „I don’t want to drive you home, but I have to. Before the vacation, there is no air in the appointment calendar. „I also have a lot to clarify.“ Keane nods and stands up. “I’ll take you home in an hour.” That hour flew by in no time.

When I put the key in the lock of the apartment, Endrik tears open the door and throws two large travel bags in front of my feet. „I packed all your stuff“ „What’s going on?“ “It’s better if we go our separate ways. Everything has also been clarified with the landlord.” „Can’t I come in and talk to you about what you asked me to do. „To be honest, I don’t see any point in talking to you about anything.“ „I wanted to explain it to you a little more softly, but then we do it here and now: I’m breaking up with you.“ He shakes his head convinced of himself, licks his lips and closes the door slowly, with a „Darling“ from the apartment still audible.

Ah yes, the female colleague is probably here at home now. I call Bamika, who picks me up and helps me put the things in her apartment. “What an ass. Well, luckily you have something better now and you deserve it.” She grins widely and winks at me. “It’s just that he doesn’t have time for me for the next two weeks. “ Her horrified expression speaks volumes. „What?!“

“The work is calling. After that, we will go on vacation together.” „Uh, where are you going?“ “On his yacht. “ Her eyes shine.

„Does he have a brother or best friend?“ I laugh. „I can ask that next time.“ „I beg for it. By the way...” Bamika gets up and comes back a plate of muffins from the kitchen. One of them carries a glowing candle. “Happy birthday to you, Amy.” „I completely forgot that today is my birthday.“ We laugh. „Thank you Bamika.“ „Do you want something.“ I blow out the candle and wish for a life, full of unforgettable moments.

[ajkuerschner]

So I spend the two weeks gratefully with my girlfriend and stare at the phone every morning and evening, without a message from Keane. The walk in the park makes my head think more clearly. This passion between us is indescribable. Never in my life did I think I would meet someone like him.

I have registered the vacation at work and since my bags are already packed, I finish my service around one on Friday to drive to her house with Bamika. Once there, there is a black limousine that sounds familiar to me. I get out in surprise. „How does he know I’m here?“ She shrugs her shoulders „Maybe your ex told him.“ „I don’t think so.“

His passenger door opens and he gets out. Bamika can’t resist a quiet cry of joy. I walk up to him and he greets me with open arms. „How did you know ...“ „Bae, I’ll get your bags and we’ll discuss everything else in the car.“ „Hey, nice to meet you,“ says Bamika slightly intimidated. I hug her and thank her and will reciprocate with, as she hopes, a better half for her. When my bags are invited in his trunk, we sit down together in the back seat. Keane puts a hand on my lap. „In case something should happen to you, I have installed a tracking app with which you can also track my location Bae.“ „You have something?!“ “It’s for our safety. „That’s called stalking!“ “The only one who might stalk you in the near future is your ex. „Did you meet him?“ „Only fleeting at work, in the elevator.“ „Do you have trust issues?“ „No, but being around me also brings dangers that you are not yet familiar with. I hope you’re looking forward to our vacation as much as I am, Bae.” I nod and squeeze his hand in confirmation.

We stop again briefly at his house. My bags are taken to the guest room, as I don’t need them on vacation anyway. „If you’ve sorted your things and something else is missing or can get away, let me know Bae.“ „I’ll be D.“ I notice that there is a new closet in the guest room, bigger and taller than the previous one. After I get ready for the holiday, we drive to the airfield, where we leave in his private jet towards the yacht.

Fall for it - Last days of April

It is already dark and the landscape shines in a glow that I have not seen before. From above, it looks like its own star system.

„Wow,“ I say, looking out the window. „Indeed Bae,“ Keane returns and I feel his eyes on me.

Arriving at the yacht, the captain welcomes us with crew. We toast to a wonderful holiday and start driving out to the sea. “It’s going to feel like on a cruise, Bae.” “I’ve always wanted to book a cruise, but the money just wasn’t enough. Thank you, D.” „Not for that, Bae.“ We stand on the railing and he puts an arm around my waist to pull me close to him. „Thank you for keeping me company, B.“ „Don’t thank me for that,“ I answer and turn to him, one hand on his chest, the other on his hip. In his eyes I recognize the lust of the last time. That excites me slightly. It is increased by caressing my neck. He leads me a little away from the railing and starts dancing with me. I only now notice the quiet background music, which is more and more in the foreground.

„If I’m dreaming right now, then I never want to wake up again, D.“

„I feel the same way. But this is not a dream, B. It’s real. We’re here. Do you want me to show you how real it all is?” „I beg you.“

He lifts me up and carries me under the deck, straight into a room that turns out to be a bedroom. Keane gently drops me on the bed and remains with his body above me while he loosens and takes off his pants. Then he strokes the straps of my dress down and kisses my cleavage. I begin to unbutton his shirt. He helps me with this and shortly afterwards pulls up the hem of my dress to pull off my inner thighs with one hand. He pulls me down to him by the pelvis. We breathe heavily and pamper each other until the lust takes over and he penetrates me. My body is shaying. Both of our moans culminate in a joint orgasm, again. Keane lets himself fall next to me on the bed, continuing to hold my hand and squeezes it lightly. He looks at his wristwatch. „The food should be waiting for us. Let’s go eat, B.”

[ajkuerschner]

The Mediterranean dinner looks fantastic and tastes delicious. After dinner, I go to the top of the yacht and let the night breeze ply around me. Keane comes very close to me from behind and puts his jacket on my shoulders. We just stand there, snuggled close to each other and let the thoughts be carried by the wind. It’s just too good to be true. „Let’s play a game, B.“ His anticipation resonates audibly. „Okay. What if now a huge storm was on and we threatened to capsize, D?” “I would hold you just like I do right now and tell you that everything will be fine. We would be stranded on a deserted island and make ourselves comfortable there.”

I am amused by his statement. „What if you didn’t have to go to work anymore, B?“ „Oh God, then I would have to find an occupation that fulfills me, otherwise the blanket falls on my head, D.“ My statement seems to impress him. „What if one of us breaks the rules, D?“ „That would be a shame, because then our contact would break off, B.“ „So that’s it with us after the holiday?“ He looks at me in surprise. „Our intimacies are a violation.“ „What if we insert a clause stating that intimacy is allowed with the agreement of both sides?“ „You didn’t fall on your head, D.“ Our lips seal the newly negotiated rule. „I agree with that. But what if one of us fell in love, D?”

„Bae, don’t worry about that. I can separate s*x and love well. However, if you confess to me that you feel more for me, then I will f*ck this thought out of you.“ „Wow, I didn’t expect that.“ “What if you didn’t get involved with me, B? “Then I would have missed the best chance of my life to get to know you better. I can’t and don’t want to imagine how my future would be without you, D. „This compliment flatters me a lot, B. The game made me tired. I’m going to sleep. Would you like to come with me?” „Yes, it’s already late, D.“

The two weeks of vacation went by far too fast. Our private Mediterranean cruise allowed us to visit various cities, rattle boutiques and experience sleepless, hot nights. On the morning of departure, we say goodbye to the crew and their captain after the yacht has entered the harbor and anchored. We visit the ice cream parlor from the last time and sit down with a view of the sea. „When we get to my house, you have the choice, B.“ I look at him. „You can live with me if you want, B.“ „If that’s what you want, I’ll gladly accept your suggestion on, D.“ „It’s more comfortable for me when I know you’re around me. Of course you can also move into your own apartment. I own some real estate.” „I also like it very much around you and it shows me how we stand with each other, D.“

He straightens up. There she is again, his cool attitude. That surprises me. „I hope you’re not confusing the offer with something else, B.“ “W-How could I, after we recently went through our rules, D.” I put my head in the palm of my hand and raise an eyebrow. Keane grabs his nose and lets the waiter come to our table to pay.

„Let’s go to Jet, B.“ Without holding a hand, we return to the limousine, which drives us to the jet. He holds the door open for me and we sit silently next to each other on the way back. Keane’s hands are on his lap the entire trip. I marvel at his self-control, after all the events on the yacht.

In the jet, Keane seems to be asleep and I pass the time by checking messages, looking out the window and looking at him.

Arriving at his house, he goes to his gym and when I ask if I can train with him, Keane asks for forgiveness that he needs his time for himself.

At lunch I eat alone and at dinner there is such an unpleasant silence between us that I can hardly stand it. „Is anything wrong, Daddy?“ „It’s nothing, we just told each other everything and no new topics to entertain, babe.” “Let‘s play another game, Daddy. I would—.” „No, I’m not in the mood for a game right now, babe.“ I feel like he’s hiding something. There’s more to it than he wants to admit. I try to caress his leg under the table with my foot. But he gets up and leaves. That gives me a stab in the heart. I can’t stand this cold and let my feelings run free in the shower. I let the emotional chaos trickle down on me. With my crying eyes I go into the guest room and throw myself on the bed in a prone position.

[ajkuerschner]

My alarm clock rings early in the morning. It’s Monday morning. Still tired of yesterday, I get ready for work and leave his apartment, knowing that I don’t have a key to it yet.

In the evening after shift I am picked up by his black limousine, but he is not sitting inside. Also the rest of the week there is no trace of him. Slowly it thunders to me that he realized what a line we have crossed, although I was not aware of it at first. Shit happens. Between us, a real firework went into the air. Two people, whose lives were so dreary and deadlocked, experienced a raging river of awakened passion that almost did not dry up. He has built a wall that will most likely crumble when we meet again.

Friday evening in the café a real estate agent enters the scene, who was commissioned by Keane to show me an apartment. „Thank you for making the effort to come here, but I deny.“ Surprised by this statement, he leaves the café. After I have cleaned everything and changed my clothes, I find no car waiting for me outside. When I try to call Keane, he doesn’t pick up. That’s why I call the bar to see if they need a temporary help for today and walk to it.

In the bar I meet my ex, who is having beers with his friends, his new flame close to his side, who reacts exaggeratedly to everything he does. There he has his kitten, which he always wanted.

When he wants to place an order at the bar, he is quite surprised. „You here?“ “I could ask you the same. I’ve been working here for years.” „The last few times I didn’t see you here.“ „It’s called being on vacation. „Oh, yes, where have you been? On balconies? I used to have to pay for our vacation.” I breathe deedly so as not to start a discussion about the past. “A Mediterranean cruise.” „Pah -„ He hits the counter and turns away from me for a moment. His fingers run along his open mouth. “Whiskey for our table and a little pronto.” I would like to roll my eyes, but say with a smile. „Come immediately.“ Unimaginably that we were a couple for almost three years. I guess everyone makes a mistake sometimes.

After the end of the shift - it’s already late at night - I go to the bus stop. Unfortunately, I can’t reach Bamika and hope that Keane will let me in. He is currently unpredictable. A look at the timetable tells me that the bus won’t stop here until twenty-eight minutes.

„Hey, you’re Endrik’s ex.“ „Who are you?“ The guy staggers up to me, his index finger pointed at me. He seems to have drunk something over his thirst. „Why so shy? I know you, so you know me.“ He keeps his arms slightly away from the body, as if he wanted to hug me. “Hey, what do you want?!“, I ask him in a loud voice and look around. The city looks extinct at this moment. He just laughs mischievously and approach. His steps echo in my ear. I press myself against the window of the stop and his hands grab me with a firm grip. His alcoholic breath breathes in my ear „I’d like to know why he left you.“ He tries to pull my pants down, wants to open the button. I try to bend my leg to give him a kick in the middle, but he presses me harder against the window and my face with his against it. „Let’s get this over the stage quickly and be quiet, b*tch.“ Shit, what should I do?! He has me in the headlock and the more I try to fight back, the tighter his grip gets. He reaches with his hand into my pants, into my panties and enjoys my clitoris. When I want to scream for help, he puts his hand in front of my mouth and takes the air to breathe, since my nose is also covered by his paw. Tears shoot into my eyes. I feel paralyzed. My legs are getting cold. I hear a belt open. His tongue licks my throat.

Suddenly I hear squeaky tires. A light blinds us and a car door slams shut. The stranger is thrown away, my pants pulled up and my body is carried away from hands - his hands. I am placed in the back seat and the door closes. I start to cry and lie down bent on my side, hands in front of my face. I hear him sit in the passenger seat and give the instruction to drive off. In front of my inner eye, everything plays out like a movie. I grab my head with both hands and rock slightly back and forth. I perceive everything around me only subduedly. I’m too afraid to open my eyes and therefore leave them closed all the time.

His hands carry me again. He puts me in bed and covers me. I remain frozen, my lips pressed together. At some point I fall asleep.

[ajkuerschner]

The next morning I am awakened by the rising sun. After blinking a few times, the memories come back. I take off my clothes and go to the bathroom. Nausea is coming over me. ‚That must be the shock.‘ After I throw up, I sit in the shower and stay there for an indefinite time until I feel that Keane is awake and doing his morning exercise.

I put on something, a long sweater or something and sit on the bed, like in the shower: my legs wrapped around, my chin on my knees.

There’s a knock on the door. I’m not responding. The door opens a crack and the smell of food rises into my nose. The sun wanders and I let the time pass. In between I slept and when I come back to myself, the twilight is just in. There’s a knock on the door again, „You need to eat and drink something, babe.“ Babe ... Daddy ... There was something, yes.

He sighs and sits down on the bed. My body is tensing. Keane extends a hand to me. I scream and squint my eyes. I feel his helplessness. I feel my helplessness. He’s still sitting there for a while. Then he sighs and leaves the room. Night is back. The scenery plays out in my head. I cry again, scream and wish to vanish. I startle when light floods the room. The door is open. Keane comes up to me, takes my hands and gently pushes them against the wall.

„AH!!“ A hand covers my mouth, well aware that I can breathe through my nose. He makes his way between my legs. The tears have no end. I feel his body, smell his scent. He pulls me closer to him. His embrace flows through me like security, gives me comforting warmth. My arms are wrapped around him. My crying dries up in sobs. He kisses my head and we look at each other. His face reflects my suffering, but our eyes are flaming. “That will never happen again. I promise you.” He presses me against him again and moans painly. „What was between us will never happen again, Daddy,“ I reply.

„Don’t say that.“ „I’m sorry I broke our agreement and with it our rules Daddy. I was punished for that.” „Don’t say that!“ His grip becomes firmer. „I’ll find my own apartment and tackle our relationship professionally again, Daddy, if you let me.“ He wets my lips with a passionate kiss. His tongue thrusts into my mouth and he puts us in bed to stire over me. He takes my hands and pushes them into the soft blanket, caresses me and makes my heart beat again. „Oh Daddy, we can’t do that“ „Sh...“ he puts a hand on my mouth and positions his head between my legs, which he has bent with his broad shoulders. „I’m not your daddy anymore.“ His tongue licks me. His mouth sucks and smacks. My moans build up and just before the climax he turns me around and penetrates from behind. All the pain is pushed out by him. He slides his hands into the sweater and massages my breasts, plays with my nipples. I can’t help but finger myself. We moan, push together and bounce off until I feel him cum and come by myself. Then he falls into bed and engles my body with his.

I feel like I’m wrapped in cotton wool. It is warm, soft, feels safe, almost weightless. My head is empty. It’s as if the thunderstorm has passed and left a radiant sunset. I see it visually in front of me. The dark, heavy clouds continue to the left and the golden-red sky makes the sun kiss the sea. „Amy,“ he says softly. This is the first time since we met that he puts my name back in his mouth. „You changed my world.“ I smile. „And you, my Keane. Thank you.” „I have to thank you, Amy.“ We stay on the bed and I close my eyes.

„This is the best decoration in the whole apartment so far,“ I note. We look at the framed A4 sheet with which our story began and which now adorns the bedroom wall. Although our role-playing game has come to an end for two weeks, Babe and Daddy remain our pet names as a souvenir of that time. „If you want to change something about the interior, go for it, Bae. It’s our home now.” He hugs me from behind and kisses my neck. „Now that I haven’t been with my parents for a long time, it’s time to visit them again. Also, I’d like to introduce you to them, Bae. „Wow, it’s getting serious now.“ „Oh, don’t worry. They have become much more relaxed compared to back then.” „Shall this calm me down now, D?“ He hugs me and kisses my forehead. „If I withhold you from them, they will miss my greatest happiness.“ „When would you like to visit her? You know I’m going to work too.” „As for your work -“

„I’m not going to quit and spin my thumbs just because you earn enough.“ „That’s not what I meant either, Bae. What if you worked for me?” „Will this be a chief secretary number now?“ That makes him laugh. „Not a bad idea.“ Our conversation is interrupted by the ringing of his cell phone. „Hello, Mom. - Yes, I know. - Yes, there was a good reason why I didn’t come to visit you for a whole month. - This weekend? - Right. - Yes, I’m coming. - Love you too. See you then. He puts his phone in his back pocket and I grin at him. „Like you don’t love your parents, babe.“ „I have. I just thought it was cute.” “My parents have something to announce and they want to do it tonight. They invite the whole family. That means we have to pack.” „Wow, that’s very spontaneous.“ “Well, actually, they’ve tried to reach me a few times. “Oh, don’t blame me now. You didn’t answer when I called you either.”

„And I will never be able to forgive myself for that. If I don’t happen to...” “Keane, it’s good. This is the past. I’m going to pack my bags now and call in sick.” I go out of the bedroom. „Maybe you’ll reconsider a more flexible job.“ I turn around and stop in the door frame. „Ha-ha D. My temporary job is already flexible.” „But location-bound.“ „Without him, you wouldn’t have met me a second time.“ Then I go to the guest room and pack.

[ajkuerschner]

We fly by jet to his parents‘ estate. It is a country house on a wooded slope with a sea view and owned by his family for three generations. We land on their private landing site. Two butlers welcome us and bring the suitcases into the house, probably straight to our room. „Keane, let me take you in my arms!“ His parents welcome us in the reception hall. His mom squeezes him and his father shakes my hand. “A woman at Keane’s side. That I can experience it again. What’s your name?” he asks. “That’s Amy, Dad. „Ah, hello Amy, I’m Kathrin and this is my husband George,“ Keane’s mom greets me with a kiss on the cheek as we shake hands. „I’m glad to meet you.“ „Come, let’s sit down. Stella and Julian are already there with their two adorable children.“, says Kathrin.

We go to the dining room, where the set table invites you to a coffee party and sit opposite his parents. Two children storm in, closely followed by their parents. „Keane, my little brother. Nice to see you again.“ „Well, big sister Stella. I’m glad too.” They squeeze each other and Stella sits down next to her brother. „Julian, nice to see you again.“ „My favorite brother-in-law Keane, come here.“ They make an individual handshake and sit down. Keane’s mom puts her hands clasped on the table. „And now to our newcomer. I know you certainly have a lot of questions for us, but we would be very interested in how you managed to get our son back in good hands.” „Ah, I don’t have him that tight. He’s very willful.” „Oh yes, I know that all too well.“ „We ran into each other.“ „Oh, how nice. It was fate. You see George, my prayers have been answered.”

The eyes of Keane and his father say more than words. They feel visibly uncomfortable, but I guess that's Kathrin. I would also like to know who I have in front of me if I don't know the person yet. “We met again on the anniversary of his company. I was a waitress there.” "A waitress, Keane." "I mainly work in a café, but the restaurant owner is a good friend of mine." "How lovely. You have a good heart, Amy. Show me your hands. — Ah, very nice. Beautiful nails, the love line is perfect and your life line is nice and long.” "Mom," says Keane, a little annoyed. “Keane, I'm so happy for you. Do you have any plans for the future?” I look at him. He sits there a little casually, but his hand on his lower lip tells me that he is thinking. He looks over at me briefly without moving his head and then straightens up.

"You'll find out soon enough." "We hope so. Amy, is there something that excite you?" "Well, through Keane, I rediscovered art for myself." She claps her hands. "Fantastic! You have to know, George founded the tech company that Keane has been running for several years and I have owned a porcelain manufactory for forty years, a heart project, here in the nearest town. I'd like to show them to you.” "I would be honored, Kathrin." Our conversation is interrupted by a different female voice. "Sorry for the delay. There were some... problems.” Our eyes meet. I hope my face doesn't reveal anything.

“Oh, Katie and Mark. It's good that you were able to arrange to be here," says Kathrin and it is greeted in turn. So Katie is the colleague. This means that she is having an affair with my ex, because a golden wedding ring adorns the two ring fingers of the arrived couple.

[ajkuerschner]

Before she can greet me, I get up and ask for a toilet and follow the directions. I close the door behind me and suddenly have to throw up. ‚This reaction of my body is new to me.‘ I rinse and wash my hands. I’m looking for mouthwash and or toothpaste in the bathroom closet. The door handle is pushed down. „One moment please!“ I say loudly and find a tube of toothpaste. I press a pea-sized amount on my finger and wet my teeth with it. Then I rinse my mouth with plenty of water and dry it with toilet paper. When I leave the bathroom, I got scared.

In front of me is a copy of Keane, only with undercut and bleached hair. „Did you see a ghost in there?“, he asks me. His voice almost sounds like Keane’s. „N-No. Y-You just look a lot like someone.” „By someone you mean my brother Keane. Yes, we are twins. Santiago.“ He reaches out his hand to me. I shake them carefully. „And you are?“ „Amy, Keane’s girlfriend.“ „Ah and I’ve been wondering who’s blocking the toilet here. But who could be angry with you?” „I don’t understand.“ He leans his elbow against the door frame and pushes me against the closed bathroom door. „Oh, you will.“

„No. I mean, there will be more toilets in this property, right?“ This statement amuses him. „This is my favorite place to do business.“ „Okay.“ I slowly move away from the situation and go back to the others. „Everything okay, Bae?“ „Yes, yes, everything is okay.“ As I sit down, Santiago enters the room. Keane’s attitude suddenly changes. He looks tense. I put my hand on his. „Santiago, it’s nice that you also do us the honor and drink coffee with us.“ „I don’t want to miss this special occasion at all, especially after I’ve seen who’s visiting us today.“ He sits down next to Julian and takes a piece of cake. Fortunately, we don’t see each other that way, otherwise I would have to stare at him all the time, because the two are confusingly similar.

Katie and her husband Mark are sitting next to George. She doesn’t give me a look. Good. That’s the next awkward situation here at the table. The children of Stella and Julian sit next to Mark and devour their desserts in no time to be able to go play again. „How quickly they become wings.“, George notes. „Yes, four years ago they were still tiny.“, adds Kathrin. „Zayn and Zoey have been going to preschool since last summer.“, says Stella proudly. „That’s good news.“, says Kathrin. „Keane also seems to have brought good news.“, Santiago notes. All eyes are briefly focused on me. „Yes, what was her name?“, asks Mark. „Amy.“, Keane, his parents, Stella, Katie, and Santiago answer. Suddenly Keane gets up.

„Excuse us. We’re already going to the saloon. I guess, mom and dad, that you want to hold your announcement there.” “Well, yes, that’s a good idea. After coffee and cake we‘re meeting in the saloon,“ Kathrin announces. Keane takes my hand and we walk quickly across the hallway into a room that is probably called a saloon. „Everything okay, D?“ He turns to me and grabs my face to press his lips on mine. I try to push him away, because I’m not used to this rough way from him. “Keane, what’s wrong?!”

[ajkuerschner]

„Bae, I want you now.“ „Stop! Please explain your bad behaviour.” He seems hysterical. „Let’s say my brother and I are not very close to each other and there is a reason why he is still single.“ „Okay. I don’t know what happened between you and him, but please try to regain your composure.” „If I can f*ck you here and now, then yes.“ „Keane!“ I feel that he wanted to take what he craves, but he lets himself fall on the sofa and rests his elbow on the armrest to support his head with his hand. I sit down next to him and lean against him. The other family members also come and make themselves comfortable.

The parents stand in front of us and everyone gets a glass of sparkling wine, except Keane and Santiago. They drink whiskey. „Dear children.“, Kathrin begins to say. “Thank you for dedicating your time to this moment today. We would like to announce that I am now officially retiring and have chosen the successor, although my decision has also changed at short notice. Please applaud Amy, whom I use as the new manager of my manufactory.”

Those present clap and I feel numb. Everyone raises their glasses and says a toast to me. I also raise a glass and take a sip, which immediately goes back into the glass. ‚Hopefully no one has seen that.‘ Kathrin begs me forward and hugs me. “You’re going to do great. I’m sure of that,“ she whispers to me. „And now we hear a few words from Amy, my successor.“ Again there is clapping and I try to put on a smile and not blush. I haven’t been the center of attention often. “Thank you for welcoming me so warmly and entrusting me with this burden. I will try to lead this heart project to the best of my knowledge and belief.”

I raise my glass and pretend to take a sip. The others also drink and Santiago cheers as all the others clap. I leave the room and Keane follows me. „Did you get the idea while I was on the toilet?“ I hiss at him. „Yes, I thought it would be a nice surprise Bae.“ “Nice?! That’s understated. You just decided over my head!” „Please don’t argue about my decision.“, I hear Kathrin say, who came to us. „My intuition never deceives me and your hands have told me that you are suitable for a leadership position. Keane also told me that more flexibility in your life would be good for your relationship.”

„You couldn’t have talked to me about it first?“ “No, that wasn’t possible, because even he didn’t know what exactly the announcement would be.“ Her guilty expression on her face makes my anger fade. I hug her and whisper in her ear. „You have a good heart, Kathrin. Thank you.” Then I look at Keane. „So we will probably stay a little longer, because I want to visit the manufactory.“ „I hope so. As Amy said, she had to get to know the company first, as well as the employees. Besides, I haven’t seen my son for over a month. We certainly have a lot to say. Well, let’s go back to the others.”

In the evening we dine in the winter garden by candlelight. Stella and I have small talk. She seems to be skeptical about me. Her husband is much more open-minded. Katie and I haven’t exchanged a single word so far and her husband seems to be kept on a short leash. Whenever he wants to start a conversation with me, she interrupts it and distracts him. Santiago plays with a long woolen thread to show the children magic tricks. My eyes suddenly become heavy and I decide to go to our room. Keane is absorbed in a conversation with his parents.

[ajkuerschner]

As soon as I lie under the blanket, my eyes close. I dream of the newly gained impressions that Katie brings Endrik instead of Mark, that Stella is pregnant and I tell her that I am too, that the twins are suddenly Keane and mine and I become intimate with Santiago. As I dream this, I wake up. My heart is racing. ‚Oh God, why does my friend have to be a twin?‘ Embarrassed by my excitement, I turn to the side, looking at the door. Next to me lies a sleeping Keane. I snugle up to him and try to continue sleeping.

In the morning, everyone is sitting at the breakfast table in the dining room. Katie and Mark say goodbye when everyone has eaten. Stella and Julian with Zayn and Zoey leave after noon. As it turns out, Santiago still lives with his parents and owns an entire compartment in the property. Keane behaves like a guard dog when Santiago is nearby. Apparently there is something from the past, which is why they are not green. Sooner or later I will probably know the reason.

In the afternoon I drive with Kathrin to the porcelain manufactory. I am impressed with the selected pieces produced there and decorated by hand. Even a small shop connects to the workshop. The building blends perfectly into the environment. In general, I like the green landscape here very much and you almost feel at home. Directly next to the manufactory is an intact water mill. I’m holding this picture on my phone. So I remember every time that this company is now under my responsibility.

Back at the property we sit in the garden and enjoy the last warm rays of sunshine at dusk.

Dining is again in the winter garden. The blackboard seems much too big for so few people. I notice that Santiago is not sitting at the table. „Oh, Santiago is eating in his dining room.“, says George, who noticed my questioning look. „It’s better that way.“, says Keane and pushes the fork into his mouth. The idea that he is all alone arouses my sympathy.

The week went by faster than I would like. Stella showed us her horse farm, which is only three kilometers away from the parental property. We undertook a Kremser trip, spent time at a remote bathing lake and visited a long-time friend of Kathrin and George, who owns a dynamic organic farm. But one thing puzzles me: the occasional nausea that sometimes attacks me. I also perceive smells more intensely, find them abominable or can’t get enough of them. It’s slowly dawning in my head. But before I have it in black and white, I don’t want to worry Keane with it. We’ve only known each other for about two months and I guess he assumed I was using contraception, which I usually do. But during our role play, I forgot to pay attention to it.

When I walk down the stairs towards the dining room in the morning, I listen to a conversation between Keane and Kathrin.