Thursday, April 20, 2006

Love Actually...Actually

So I just finished watching Love Actually and I have to tell you, this is a great movie. If you get an opportunity to see this movie, please do. The premise is about 10 different couples and their jouney in love, out of love, and finding love. A keeper for any library.

I'm saying all this because if it makes me realize nothing else, it is that love is out there but why can't I find it? Is there a secret decoder ring that I need to be on the magic hunt for?

I mean, how exactly does one go about "finding" love? In my own situation, I find it hard to make myself emotionally available. Why? Because, I have a fear that I could end up loving the wrong person, it has happened before...and the end results are still rippling through the pool of my life. I have come to the conclusion that in order for me to have the mate that is meant for me, I'm going to have to go to either another neighborhood, city, state, or country even. Is it really that drastic? YES!

I'm watching this movie and I am falling in love with the premise and concept of falling in love...the feelings of anticipation and apprehension of discovering all the good things, ironic things, and quirks of the other persons disposition. I want that, I need that, I miss that.

I want to have that feeling of initial contact with sweaty palms and nervous heartbeat. I want the excitement of the first date, first laugh, first touch, first kiss. I want to be able to have a conversation, a genuine meeting of the minds and souls and finding out that there really is a ying to my yang out there, and we are a fit for each other.

I think that this is the other reason for writing my Untitled novel, therapy for the soul, because if my imagination can invent two people that love each other and dispite all that life throws at them, in spite of all outside forces, they can make a go at love and happiness, and have it.

What's the point of this conversation...

Therapy! My mother told me if there is something I want, I need to make it happen. Being I can't 'Make' someone love me, I know that when all else fails, I LOVE ME! And you know what...that's alright...for now.

Wednesday, April 19, 2006

Untitled - Part 3

When Demitri invited Sharon to lunch at Adam's Rib, the best soul food restaurant in the neighborhood, she never would have guessed he wanted to have this conversation. Did he just say he is in love with Maiya? Smirking she said, "So that's why you never liked Michael?"

"No, Sharon. I never like Michael because of how he treated her. I don't like the vibe I get off of that guy. Something is not right with him, but out of respect for Maiya, I never voiced that concern. When they broke up, I was done watching her have relationships with guys who didn't really care about her. Are you going to help me?"

"Well, she's supposed to meet Michael for drinks Friday night and I think he is trying to get her back. What do you think about that?"

"He has been gone for six months. What does he want now? You don't think she'll give him a second chance, do you?" Demitri never thought it would be this hard convincing Sharon he was the best man for Maiya.

"Okay, I always figured you had a thing for Maiya, but let's be honest Demitri, you already have a lot of 'girlfriends'. Are you just wanting Maiya for bragging rights and adding a notch to your belt? I'm not going to help you hurt my girl."

"Sharon, I know I have had a lot of women. Okay...I have had my share and a few others share too, but I really care for Maiya. I have had feelings for her since college and I am tired of watching other men have the opportunity to cherish her and they treat her badly. I already know what she is looking for in a man, and I want to be that man. Now, will you help me or not?"

*****

Friday morning proved to be more hectic than anticipated. The meeting scheduled with SoftBytes was a few hours away and she could not find their folder. She checked with her secretary and the other team members and no one had it in their possession. Thirty minutes before the clients where due to arrive, Sonja waltzed into her office holding the file.

“Maiya, I don’t know what happened. I found SoftBytes file in the conference room we had our team meeting in this morning. Maybe you left it there by mistake. If you need help with anything, please let me know, I know you can’t keep up with everything all by yourself.”

Maiya saw the look in Sonja’s eyes as she made her speech and it took all of her power not to snatch that pasted smile off of her face. “Thanks Sonja.”

That was all Maiya could say before her real feelings bubbled forth. Fortunately, Maiya knew the information from front to back so she was not caught off guard with Sonja’s attempt to knock her off center.

After gathering the last of the preliminary documents needed for this meeting, she walked into the conference room. Glancing up she saw Randolf speaking to the owner of SoftBytes, Lucas McCaine. Looking at him, he couldn’t be more than 35 years old, and from the predatory gleam in his eyes, she knew she was going to have to keep her guard up. When he saw Maiya, he immediately turned on the charm. Randolf introduced them and he insisted upon her sitting across from him so he could get a better look at her. At then end of the meeting, two hours later, Lucas announced SoftBytes was hosting an investors reception the next evening and invited Peterson, Morgan, and Lucian.

“Maiya, I was wondering if you would allow me to be your escort for the evening?” Lucas asked.

“I’m sorry Mr. McCaine but I don’t date clients. Besides, I’m already seeing someone, but that you for the offer. I’ll see you tomorrow evening.”

Walking from the conference room, Maiya thought if Michael had really changed for the better, she would ask him to be her escort.

*****

Friday night after work Maiya met Michael at the bar they used to go to when they dated. He was waiting for her at the bar watching the sports results on the nearby television. She took a deep breath and prepared herself for the meeting that she really wanted to avoid.
When he turned around and saw her standing next to him, she never expected the feelings she thought were long gone to surface when he looked deep into her eyes, the way he used to.

“Hey baby.” He leaned over to brush a kiss across her mouth and she turned her head just in time to get the kiss on her cheek.

“I didn’t come here to relive old times Michael, you said you had something you wanted to say so lets get to it.” It took all of her power to let that kiss affect her in any way, but it wasn’t working.

Turning on all the charm he could muster, he said to her, “Come on sweetie, don’t be like that. It’s been six months since we’ve seen each other, let’s have a drink and why don’t you tell me what you’ve been up to. I know we need to talk, but I’d like to know how you’ve been first. How ‘bout it, what would you like to drink?”

Signing, feeling like maybe he’s changed, she asked for a Long Island Iced Tea. Settling into the stool next to him, she crossed her legs and took a sip when the bartender returned with her drink.

“My day was fine Michael,” she said turning to look at him, “but I am a little curious as to why you wanted to see me after all this time. You made it rather clear the last before you left my house that you weren’t the man for me. You needed sex and I wasn’t the woman for you because I wasn’t ready to give it to you. So, what do you have to say to amend that comment?”

“Maiya, I was wrong for going there with you. I know it was wrong for me to force that issue, but we had been dating for six months, what was I supposed to think. I figured if you weren’t giving it to me you where giving it to someone.”

“Like you where? Michael, I didn’t come here to argue, I’m leaving.”

“NO. Don’t go. I was out of line for that, because I was cheating, but Tonya and I are just friends. I want to tell you that you were the best thing that happened to me and I was so out of line with you, I didn’t appreciate what I had until it was too late. I’m asking for your forgiveness. Do you think you can find it in your heart to want to start over with me?”

Sitting next to him, she began to wonder what the catch was. She knew he was a good person, before she found out about the other woman, but did he really feel that way. Just as she was about to ask him, she felt a presence at her back and turned around to see Tonya staring between her and Michael.

“So, isn’t this cozy. I wonder why I wasn’t invited.”

Michael turned in his stool and his cool expression changed so fast, she wasn’t sure but it appeared there was fear and apprehension in his face.

“Tonya, baby, what are you doing here?”

“Did you tell her Michael!? Did you tell her to leave you alone and to stop calling you?” Turning to Maiya, she said, “we are getting married and you need to stay away from him. I would think after being dumped you would have gotten the hint, but I’m here to tell you, I don’t appreciate you trying to come between me and my fiancĂ©. Stay away from us Maiya, he doesn’t want you.”

Maiya looked between Michael and Tonya and shook her head. After feeling stupid for being duped into drinks with him, he really hadn’t changed after all. Looking at Tonya, she contemplated letting the situation slide and just walking away and let Tonya continue to be used and cheated on by Michael.

“Tonya, honey, you know what, you are so right. You two are made for each other. I hope you are happy together. As for you Michael, you don’t deserve her. Don’t call me again,” picked up her drink and tossed it in his face.

With that, she paid for her drink and walked out of the bar. Dialing Demitri on her cell phone, she told him she was on her way over.

Calling Sharon when she reached her car she told her if she ever saw Michael again to run the other direction.

“What happened girl, what are you talking about?”

After relaying the events of that evening, Sharon told her, “that couldn’t have been me Maiya. You are too nice. He would have gotten so much more than just a drink in the face. But I am sorry. I never thought he would have turned out to be like that. Well, I do know who will not be invited to the next backyard boogie.”

They shared a laugh and she disconnected the call when she reached Demitri’s driveway.

*****

“You are kidding me Maiya.” The longer Demitri listened to Maiya’s tale of terror of an evening, the angrier he got. “So, he hasn’t changed huh? Why did you agree to have drinks with him anyway?”

Maiya understood her anger at the situation, why was he so angry. “It doesn’t matter now, I never want to see him again to save my life. But anyway, now that we have that out of the way, I need your help.”

“Yeah, sure, what do you need?” Demitri tried to calm himself down. He didn’t want to give away his true feelings. After lunch with Sharon, he had to start on getting Maiya to see him as a potential lover.

“Tomorrow night is an investor’s reception hosted by SoftBytes and I need a date, well, actually I need you to go as my boyfriend. The owner of the company came on a little strong and I need a buffer so he stays in his place. Will you help me out for the evening? You do have a tuxedo don’t you, it’s formal.”
Did she know what she was asking him to do? Demitri looked at Maiya and thought maybe he and Sharon didn’t have to work on any outside plans; one had just been presented for him.

“Sure Maiya, I’ll do anything for you. What time should I pick you up?”

I’ll be ready at 6pm. See you tomorrow night. She realized he was still holding her in his arms and she backed away toward the couch. Turning to pick up her purse, she thanked him for the evening and left. Getting into her car, she realized she was still holding her breath. Standing in his arms is one thing, but looking up into his eyes and feeling like she needed to kiss him was something totally different. Rolling down the windows for some fresh air, she drove home with naughty thoughts and soaking panties. Demitri was definitely no good for her equilibrium.

Friday, April 14, 2006

Untitled - Part 2

PART 2

A few days later, sitting on the couch watching Law and Order, the phone rang. Really not wanting to be interrupted she contemplated not answering the phone, but remembering she wanted to speak to Sharon, she answered.

“Hello?”
“It’s me, I know you watching Law and Order, but I figured I’d better give you a heads up.”

“What are you talking about Sharon? What did you do?”

“I didn’t do anything Maiya. Why do you always assume I’ve done something? You get on my nerves with that girl. Here I am trying to give you warning…”

“Okay, Sharon, what is it? If I don’t stop you now we’ll be at this all night.”

“Look, I saw Michael in the grocery store earlier and he asked about you. He might be calling you later.”

She had been half listening, waiting to see what evidence the cops just found in the suspects apartment when Sharon said something about Michael.

“What did you just say, you saw who? Michael?! What did he want?”

“Are you listening to me, he might be calling you later girl. He said he missed you and wanted to know how you where doing. So, do you miss him? You know he might want to get back with you. That’s not such a bad thing Maiya. It’s been six months; see what he has to say.”

“Sharon, I know you did not give that man any encouragement to call and try to get back with me. I never told you…look, just take my word for it. I do not want to get back with Michael. He is better off where ever he is, and I’m happier where I am.”

“What didn’t you tell me, Maiya? Something about Michael? What?”
“Hold on Sharon, I got another call coming in, and don’t you hang up, I’ll be right back.”

“Maiya, I am not EnVogue, I don’t hold on for anybody.”

“I mean it; I’m not done with you.” Clicking over, Maiya answered hello.

“Hey baby. Have you missed me?”

“Michael. I have a call on the other line, can I call you back?”

“Well, I really had something important to speak with you about, could you call them back?”

Same old Michael, only thinking about his needs and feelings. Taking a deep sigh, Maiya said, “Hold on, I’ll be right back.”

Clicking back over to Sharon, she immediately went into telling her off.

“Sharon, you wrong for having this man call me. As soon as I’m done putting him in his place, I’m coming for you. And don’t try to hide, I know where you live.”

Laughing, Sharon said, “Girl I’ll be right here waiting to hear when you two are get…” Maiya hung up before she could finish the sentence.

“Hello Michael.” She said by way of introduction.

“Long time since we talked baby-girl. How’ve you been?”

“I know you didn’t call for small talk, what’s up? Why are you calling me now, after all this time?”

“I wanted to see how you’ve been and to try to salvage some type of friendship with you Maiya. Will you meet me for drinks tomorrow?”

“It’s been six months since we spoke and now you want to preserve a “friendship” as you call it. Does Tonya want us to preserve a friendship? Where is she anyway? You know what Michael, no; I don’t think drinks would be a good idea.”

“Come on Maiya, don’t be like that. Tonya and I are not together anymore. I haven’t seen or spoken to you since that night. I haven’t felt right since that night. I said some things that where not cool and I owe you an explanation, and to ask for your forgiveness. Come on baby, please? You remember how much…”

In the middle of Michael’s monologue, Maiya thought back to when she first met him, at Sharon’s backyard get-together a year ago.

Sharon’s parties where famous around the old neighborhood for good food and fun with a lot of people partying. She would see all of their old childhood friends and meet anyone else Sharon had snagged into her friendship net over the years. She walked into the backyard looking for Demitri and his latest girl of the month. “That man never keeps a girl long, I wonder which one he’s going to say so-long to today,” she thought to herself.

Looking around the backyard she saw a face that made her jaw drop open. The man that was staring back at her was someone who walked off a Stacy Adams suit ad and right into this backyard. He was well over six feet tall. He was a dark chocolate god. He had a bald head and beautiful brown eyes that were dusted with the most sensuous lashes that any woman would kill for. He had an aristocratic nose and finely chiseled jaw that looked as smooth as silk. And those lips, sweet Jesus, those lips looked like they could kiss you and make you forget your own name. Looking at him below the neck was just as impressive.

Sharon came up behind her wondering why she looked like she was devising a plan of kidnapping. “Who are you staring at like that girl?”

“Who is that by the back fence in the red shirt and khaki shorts? Girl, where did you find that one and is he with anybody?”

“Who him, that’s Michael. You remember Michael Robinson from the fourth grade. I saw him at the movies last week with some friends and invited him to the party. He has really grown up huh?”

Maiya looked at her in disbelief. “That is skinny, braces having, corrective shoes wearing Michael? Head-gear Michael? Girl what happened? Milk has definitely done that body some good!”

“Close your mouth idiot, he’s coming over here.” Sharon told her laughing.

“Hey Maiya, Sharon told me you’d be here. You haven’t changed a bit. It’s good to see you again. How’s everything going?”
“Michael, wow, it’s good to see you again. And you don’t look anything like you did in the fourth grade,” she said laughing. “What have you been doing with yourself?”

They talked and hung together for the rest of the night. They talked about everything they’d done after school and their jobs. By the end of the night, they had exchanged telephone numbers and promised to call each other.

“So,” Sharon said, “you where sticking kind of close to Michael. What do you think?”

“He’s nice. I like him. We caught up on what we have done since moving from the neighborhood. We’re going to meet up again, soon.”

“I don’t think Demitri likes him. You should have seen the way he was eyeing you guys all night. His friend left without him, and she was pissed.”

“What are you talking about Sharon?”

Michael’s yelling brought her back to the present.

“Maiya, are you listening to me? You are going to meet me so we can talk about this. I’m not with Tonya anymore. Meet me at the spot after work on Friday okay.”

“Michael, fine. If it will keep you from calling me again, I’ll meet you, you can say what you feel you need to tell me and we can go on with our lives. I’m going to bed now. Good night.” Exasperated that she changed her mind, and missed the ending of Law and Order, she turned off the lights and climbed into bed.


******

Demitri laid back on the bed, eyes closed, wanting to feel what she had in store for him next. She had kissed her way from the top of his head to the bottom of his feet, and had made her way back up to his thighs. As she feathered kisses closer to his manhood, he held his breath. She grazed her nose over his balls to the other thigh, planting kisses down that leg.

He opened his eyes to look down at her and when he saw her staring at him, gauging his reaction to her teasing. It took all his will power to keep him planted on his back, in her bed.
She started kissing him from the center of his balls, all the way up to the tip of his manhood. As she got to the tip, she noticed a drop of pre-come, signs that he was ready for the next step. She licked it off with the tip of her tongue, closed her eyes, and moaned, sounding like this was just the beginning to what she had in store for him.

She opened her eyes and look him directly in his eyes as she closed her mouth over his red, swollen tip. He bit his lip to keep from crying out with pleasure, not wanting to distract her from anything she planned to do. Sitting on her knees between his legs, she placed her hands on his hips, only letting her warm mouth give him extreme pleasure.

He broke out in a sweat when she started working her mouth down the length of him, trying to take in as much of him as she could, humming as she licked and rocked her mouth down as far as she could take him in her mouth.

“Fuck! Maiya if you keep this up, I’m going to loose control, and I don’t want to loose control in your mouth baby. Please don’t torture me. I want to be inside of you.”

Maiya just looked at him, graced him with the most innocent look in her eyes and the sweetest smile she could produce with his cock still in her mouth, moaned and said, “Umm umm.”

With that said, she started licking and stroking her tongue up and down the length of him. He met each stroke of her tongue with a thrust of his hips. The faster she licked, the faster he thrust.

Before he could stop it, he felt his balls tighten and he let out a satisfied grunt as he spilled his seed in her mouth. He through his head back and let the tingles take over his body as he heard her slurping as much as she could.”

“I’ll be damned.” That was all he said after he woke up and found his stomach holding the evidence of his latest dream. I can’t keep going like this. He through the covers off of his legs and padded into the bathroom. He walked over and turned on the shower. Looking at himself in the mirror, he told himself, “it’s time to start Operation: Maiya.” It was earlier that he normally got up on a work day, so he showered, and went for a jog through his neighborhood.

During the jog, he thought of ways to get Maiya to see him as more than her friend Demitri and as a man. A man who has loved her from afar for a long time, and would love to get her to see this.

Walking into his house, he went directly to his phone and dialed up his soon-to-be ally, Sharon.

Monday, April 10, 2006

Current News and WTF

Okay - so last night I'm following my monthly ritual of watching CNN to get the latest and greatest of good news, bad news, and WTF - the actually covered that on CNN news and two stories caught my attention and I am just shaking my head wondering what the hell is gonna be next.

The first one happened in Detroit, MI. A little 5 year old boy calls 911 because his mother collapses and they do not respond. His mother dies and now it's just him and his NINE other brothers and sisters. They interviewed the president of the union that the 911 operator is a member of and she is just very nonchelant and real cool-like. So check the tape, here is what happenes, they play the tape, and the little boy says his mother passed out and they needed help. The operator proceeds to ask if an adult is present and if so put them on the phone. The child says something that can't be understood. From the explanation of the Union President, here are the reasons that 911 responded so late to this emergency:

1) First, the tape CNN played was acutually the recording of both the first and second 911 operators that took this call (meaning the child called TWICE)

2) The new system that the 911 district is using has caused problems in the past where the operators could not fully understand what the caller was saying was the actual emergency.

3) The first operator who took the call did not believe this was a real emergency because she had taken 2 prank calls earlier from a house on the same street (not the same house mind you but he same street)

4) The tape that CNN used was mastered better than the tape that they had (meaning CNN's technology is way better than 911)

5) Them, at 911, take all calls that come into the call center very seriously.

I posed these bogus responses so you, the reader, will understand why I'm about to go smooth off on those operators.

I understand the job can be stressful, but come on now...911 was the first organization, right after the government, to get caller ID. I know they keep logs of crank 911 calls because how else are they gonna be billed to the phone bill and paid for (DUH). Then for her to part her lips and say the call wasn't taken seriously because 2 crank calls came from the same street earlier, what happened to Police responding to a house to ensure there really isn't an emergency, and if the call is the result of a crank call, the fear of going to jail is enstilled into the hearts and minds of the offending child? (It happened to me) So basically, she's saying SHE didn't feell there was a real emergency so she didn't put the call through just to make sure...you know...one of those just in case situations.

And what if this was an adult at home (or elderly person) having trouble articulating their emergency, they are just going to negate the call totally because the "system" made the call inaudible? Listen folks, I was born on a Friday, but it wasn't last Friday.

The second story that caught my attention was the fact that today, there will be/are protests around the country either for or against the legalization of over 11 million (I hope that is the correct estimated number) aliens. Some are for and some are against. My thougths on the situation is this:

Most of these people have been here FOREVER, and why are they trying to close the gate now that all the horses have run free. Most of these individuals have had childern (and based on our own laws of the land, the parents are AUTOMATICALLY citizens when the illegal parent has a child on American soil). In my opinion, America is trying to do Spring cleaning like 40 years after the fact. I guess that rug that they swept all of the dirty little secrets under, while they where invading/plundering or just plain messing with other countries, has gotten a little to crowded and they need to make it appear there is real cause for concern for us.

I don't know...Then I turn to C-SPAN and watch the "Road to the White House for 2008" and they are following senators or governers around that might act like they want to run for Prez in the next election and I don't know ya'll, what's the point? Honestly, think about it...who would you trust to go behind our current Prez & cabinet to clean up the mess that has been created? Is there really someone out there with a GENUINE care and concern for the disrepair of the American spirit? Is there really a person out there, man or woman, that will honestly talk about the REAL issues (and I'm not talking about marriage between gays or parital abortions - I'm talking about the catalysts for the strength or downfall of the American economy)?

I am of the opinion (strictly my own) that we need to turn our attention from what's going on in other peoples houses (Iraq, Iran, China, N/S Korea) and get our own back in order.

I'm not even gonna get started on my feelings after watching Farienheit 911!!!

*****These opinions are strictly and solely mine. I'm not asking you to agree or disagree. This is just what I've been thinking about over the past few days.****

Wednesday, April 05, 2006

Status of Untitled Novel

Progress of Untitled Novel...

I am improving the character background and reviewing the outline. I still have some work on how I want it all to come together. Here is the inspiration for Demitri...



Isn't he a cutie...

Anyways...I'm writing down everything that pops in my head and when it is in some type of recognizable order, you'll be the next to see it. Come back soon.

Later

Saturday, April 01, 2006

Parline's Musings

Okay - here it is. UNTITLED.

There are and will be strong sexuality to this story so please, if you are under the age of 18, don't read it. And if you do, YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.

It is and interracial romance (BW/WM). Maiya Lancaster and Demitri Carnetti have know each other since freshman year in collage.

Can they get past their own internal fears of not being the others "type" and step out on a limb and get together already?!?!

Untitled Part 1

He whispered in her ear, "Tell me what you want and you know I'll do it to you."

She moaned and couldn't say anything beyond the gasp that escaped her lips from the sheer delight of finally having him in her bed. He smiled that very wicked smile that got her here in the first place and started licking her behind her ear, down her neck and stopping at her pulse point. He kissed her across her collarbone and her pulse picked up speed. He began kissing her down her chest and stopped at her right breast. He swirled his tongue around her hardening nipple and she held her breath.

"Don't pass out on me now, I've go so much more planned for you, sweetheart." He moved to the left nipple and kept pinching the right one with his hand. "Yes" she panted. "Don't stop Metri...mmmm." He swirled and sucked on her left nipple and she felt the pressure building. He started kissing her down her stomach and stopped to lick her navel. Her forehead broke out with sweat and she felt the moisture building between her thighs. He took a finger and slid it into to her wetness and she moaned loudly. "You want more? Tell me what you want. You want me to taste you? If you don't say it I won't do it." he teased. "Oh God yes Metri - I want to feel your tongue on me please, baby don't stop."

"Where do you want my tongue?" he asked as he kept moving his finger inside of her. "Tell me where you want my tongue Mai." She started moving her hips in time with his finger, moaning, "Please, please, baby....I want your tongue on me please!"

"Where? Say it", he said as he added another finger and moved his hand faster, "Say it now!"

"ON MY PUSSY! Please eat it baby...taste it...eat it Demitri." As he rocked his hand and felt her inner walls pulsing against his fingers, he took the tip of his tongue and flicked it on her clit, the pressure built up and it was more than she could take. She came so hard on his mouth. "YES.....YES....don't stop Metri, yes!

BEEP....BEEP....BEEP....

Maiya’s alarm woke her up at five a.m. and she groaned. Feeling the wetness between her thighs she sighed. Here we go again. She reached over and hit the off button on the alarm, wishing she could throw it across the room for having the worst timing. She rolled onto her back and fluttered her eyes open realizing it was time to get up and start the day she’d been waiting for since she was hired at Peterson, Morgan, and Lucian five years ago. This was the day to find out if she’d be the one chosen to handle their newest client. Becoming an attorney had been a dream she had worked toward since she was in middle school and saw her first episode of Law and Order. “Wake up girl. Today is the day that we find out if you really got the juice.”

She rolled out of bed and stretched for the ceiling, giving herself that wake-up shake. She reached for her cd player romote and pushed play. This mixed cd she put together always put her in the mindset of walking into the proverbial lion's den and walking out the victor. Listening to the lyrics of Jill Scott and Macy Gray she walked into the bathroom and turned on the shower. She started going over her mental checklist of things to do to make sure she looked good for her meeting with the senior partners. It was only a matter of time before her dream came true. "Mama," she said looking toward the ceiling, "ya baby girls gonna do it, and there is no stopping me now." After her shower, she walked out and put on her sexies lingurie. She needed a secret weapon, and what better secret than to know she had on one of Vicky's best kept under her power suit. Forty-five minutes later, she looked at her self in the mirror as she put the finishing touches on her make-up and smiled. Winking at herself, she walked out of bathroom, grabbed her briefcase and overcoat, and headed to the garage for her drive into the city.

Maiya Lancaster knew that as soon as Randolf Peterson, one of the senior partners of her law firm walked into her office at 7:45 that morning, this was the opportunity of her career she'd been waiting for. As a senior associate attorney in one of the largest corporate law firms in Dallas, Tx, she was one of four vying for a position working with their new client, SoftBytes Technology, an up and coming software firm needing legal representation for contract negotiations, patent research, and client counseling. Sweaty palms and a hopefully not-to-eager smile, she looked up to Randolf and said, “Good morning. Come in and sit. What’s on your mind?”

Randolf knew he was the only partner on board willing to give Maiya a chance with their new client SoftBytes. Being his was one of many firms wanting to recruit her after she graduated Magna cum laude from Southern Methodist University’s School of Law, he knew she had the ability to perform and produce top results for any client. Now to make sure she new the magnitude of this opportunity was his job and to give her the good news. Randolf looked over her office and smiled at the African American wall art and figurines she had surrounding her. She was definitely the one that needed to be working with this client. He saw her as headstrong and very intelligent. She took her work seriously and was dedicated 150% to the law firm and to her clients. She also had quiet strength that would keep her under the partner's spotlight for years to come. Being he was her mentor when she became Senior Associate, there was no other choice for him to make except put in his vote twice for her to get the client.

"How are you this morning sport?" Randolf asked, crossing his leg over his knee. "Great. Just going over final documents for Cheryl to send to Benny. We got their contracts approved and their signing off this afternoon. What's on your mind?" Silently pleading he would put her out of her misery and tell her if she was got the new client or not, she waited for him to speak. "Not much, just wanted to say Benny called last night and praised your tenacity with these contracts. We really appreciate your dedication to these guys. You know they bring in alot of revenue for us and I just wanted to say keep up the execllent work." "Thanks," she replied, "His vendor wanted to give me a hard time, but I let him know we wouldn't take any less than our final offer. He got the point." Randolf looked at her, trying to hold his smile back. He was purposely dragging out the good news just to see how long she could wait before she demanded to know if she got the new client. He rose from the chair and straightened his tie, "Well, that's all I wanted to say, see you later then." He turned to walk toward the door and heard her let out a deep breath, he snapped his fingers and turned, "Maiya, I knew it was another reason I came in to see you this early. I also wanted to congratulate you on being the head attorney working with SoftBytes Tech. You do us proud with these guys and you can write your own ticket and make it to the crystal tower. Good job sport." She came around her desk and held out her hand to offer a hand shake and smiling, "Thanks Randolf, I'll do the firm proud." He shook her hand again and walked out of her office.

She closed the door behind him, and did her own happy dance, letting out a whispered YES, with three hand pumps. Straightening her jacket, she opened the door, walked back to her desk and called her best friend since collage, Demitri.

Demitri Carnetti sat at his drafting table going over the latest drafts for the house he was building. Owning an architechural firm was not easy, but he loved helping people, and what better way than to make their dream home come to life. He hadn't heard from Maiya this morning, so maybe she hadn't gotten the news about the new client yet. He really hoped she got it because after everything she'd been through, from her burying her mother last year, to the bad breakup with that jerk Michael six months ago, she really deserved it.

He thought back to the first time he'd saw her in SMU's quad their freshman year in collage. She took his breath away. Standing with a group of girls, she was the most animated, most energetic girl he'd ever laid eyes on. She was laughing at something they where talking about, and when she looked up at him, he'd almost tripped when he saw her molssas colored eyes. He quickly walked away, but had turned around and watched her until he was around the corner of the Admissions building. "Wow", he'd thought then, and she still wow'd him twelve years later. His ringing phone brought him out of his trip down memory lane. Picking it up, he answered "Carnetti, how may I help you?"

"Demetri, I got it!" Maiya squealed. "Randolf just left my office and I'm the lead attorney for SoftBytes. Where are you taking me to celebrate? I am so excited, we have to go to lunch today. Can you believe it, I got it!"

Laughing, he said, "Calm down girl. I don't know why you're trying to sound so shocked, you know you got the juice. I can't take you to lunch, because I have clients coming to go over final drafts, but I'm cooking you dinner. Be at my place at 6 and I'll make your favorite."
She slowed her breathing and said, "Really, I love you're lasanga. I'll pick up some wine on the way then. I got the client! Do you know how long I've been waiting for this. YES!"

Chuckling, he said, "Yes, I know how long you've been waiting and how hard you've worked. I'm proud of you Mai. I got a call coming though, so calm down, take a deep breath, and try not to blind everybody with that 1000 watt smile I know you wearing right now. I'll see you tonight. Love ya girl. Bye." This was the only way he'd be able to tell her he loved her, so he told her whenever they talked.
"Love you too Metri. See you later. Bye." Maiya said and hung up the phone, but this smile on her face was not due to her new client.

Whenever Demitri Carnetti said I love you in that deep, sexy voice of hi s, her breath always got caught in her throat. She could only dream about him telling her those three words with more than brotherly love behind them. She knew she was pretty, but the caliber of woman that caught Demetri's eyes was always short and petite, long blonde hair, and crystal blue eyes. Definately not her. She was 5"9, with milk chocolate skin. She'd been told she favored Jasmine Guy, only darker, not his type of woman. She'd take what she could get from their friendship though.

She'd had a crush on him since the breakup with Michael. She thought back to the night Michael dumped her because she still wasn't ready to take that final step and have sex with him. She called Demitri and just from the sound in her voice he came right over. He used the spare key he had and when he walked in and saw her on the couch blowing her nose he felt like finding Michael and breaking his neck. When she saw he brought her favorite ice cream, Crazy Cashew, she broke down all over again. He held her on the couch, she told him what happened, and she cried some more. When she fell asleep on his shoulder, he moved to lay her down and leave, but she woke up and walked to her bedroom and asked him to stay with her until she went back to sleep. When he climbed into her bed and she scooted into his arms, and she felt so much better. He whispered everything would be okay and he'd stay as long as she wanted him to. That's when she felt they could be so much more than friends.

It hurt that he only saw her as a sister, but he would always be her best friend. She couldn't wait to see him for dinner.

***********

That afternoon, Laura and sonja sat at the cafe over lunch and discussed the partner's decision of choosing Maiya as lead attorney working with SoftBytes Tech. Laura was happy for her, even though she was also up for the opportunity. Maiya deserved this position, but Laura was getting the feeling Sonja was not sharing her positive attitude toward the decision.

"I can not believe they chose herover you Laura. I mean, SMU is a good school and all but you graduated from an Ivy League University, an dbesides that your family is very influential. If I had your connections, I'd have my father talk to those partners and get what was due to me." Sonja ranted on into her Chicken Caesar Salad wondering why Laura wasn't showing a little more emotion over this unfair slight. "I bet they gave it to her because of affirmative action, or do you think she's sleeping with a partner? I know she couldn't have been the best choice. I know for a fact you are the better choice. I mean, look at where she comes from!"

Losing her appetite from Sonja's very negitive spewings, Laura put her fork down. Sonja has made some questionable comments in the past, but nothing as blatently hateful and borderline racial as what she was saying now. Laura was acutally happy for Maiya's opportunity. She and Maiya had worked with previous projects where Sonja had been the lead attoreny and Maiya had always proven herself , and had earned SoftBytes. Laura smiled at herself thinking, "if Laura doesn't like that bit of news, she is about to blow when I tell her she is transferring to work as Maiya's associate paralegal.

"Acutally," Laura began, "I'm happy that she has this opportunity as lead with SoftBytes. And I thought you'd be happy as well. You see, Randolf came to me before the announcement was mad and asked if I thought you'd fit in well as the associate paralegal working woth Maiya's team. That is something you'd like to do...isn't it?"

Sonja's fork stopped midway to her mouth and gapped at Laura as if she had just told her she wanted to strip off all her clothes and masterbate right there, on their table, in middle of the cafe. "Are you serious?" Was all Sonja could choke out.

"Well", Sonja started, "that might not be such a bad idea. Don't get me wrong Laura, I love working on such a competent team as yours, but she is going to need someone to make sure she handles these clients in a professional manner.

"Please dont' misinterpret my earlier comments, the werent' mean to be mean, I just feel you would do so much better in that spot. But since they chose her, I guess I could shadow her and make sure it runs smoothly. "

Sonja feeling rather smart at the moment, thought to herself she could definatly shadow her and make sure the partners know exactly what bad decision they made in choosing Maiya Lancaster. She'd just have to bide her time andkeep her eyes open for the right opportunity.

Randolf emaild Maiya to notify her that Sonja Charleston would be her associate paralegal. "Ugh, great," Maiya muttered to herself. "If I have to work with her, I'll make the best of the situation, and make sure whatever happens, I will not let her get to me.

My Untitled Novel


First, let me introduce myself. I'm Parline Larue (not my real name, but if I had to have a stage name that might one day be in lights, why not go for one you know you've never heard before...as Nate and Natalie Cole said..."Unforgettable") I'm 28 and there is so much I haven't tried that I made a deal with myself and said, "Self, I would like to try out some new things so lets get started." I make my money going to a 8-5 Monday thru Friday, but I have tried sewing, baking, interior design, carpentry, and that's just a few of my latest ventures. I figured if the opportunities presents itself to learn something new, why no go for it. At least I tried; and sometimes I've suceeded and became successful. I am everyday people. (Also, you'll learn I love music, hence the music quotes...hahaha).

My latest attempt at accomplishing life is I want to write a book. Now, I'll work on publishing possibities later. Now, don't think me crazy (at least not certifiable), but I have these characters jumping around my head that have a life totally separate from me and mine, and in order to make sure I don't end up locked up and medicated, the best free therapy, besides poppin bubble wrap, it to write them down. Put them on paper as a living testiment to their "lives". So I have been working on this novella, currently it's untitled, and I'd like to share it with you. I'm posting as I write (cause my MSWord is giving me attitude at the moment) so bear with me. "You" are technically the first people to see it, after my eyes so, feel free to tell me what you think.

Thanks for your time and enjoy the Musings of Parline Larue.