Pursuant to the Berne Convention, this written work is copyrighted with all rights reserved by the author unless explicitly indicated. For questions or concerns, email technite86@yahoo.com. Copyright 2012

D'inspiration (or d_insipiration_pseudonym) <technite86@yahoo.com>

Allison/Emanuel Naked in School (NiS, hs, exhib, voy, no sex)

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Wednesday Evening

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Emanuel

“Mainly, there are two important things to know about meeting Sensei for the first time. First, when you step through the curtain separating the outer area of the dojo and the inner, put your hands together near the upper middle of your chest and wait there until he acknowledges your presence. Secondly, shoes, socks and other belongings go in the cubbies before the curtain. Besides that, the obvious things: when addressing him, speak in a polite tone of voice and call him Sensei.”

“I was nervous there was going to be more to it than that.”

“Things are never quite as bad as you initially think they will be.”

“I can’t help it if I’m nervous though. I want to make a good first impression.”

“No need to worry about that. Sensei has the sometimes unnerving talent of being able to discern a person’s true nature no matter how good of an actor they are. He’ll like you the moment he meets you. He will give you one piece of advice if you choose to continue studying though.” As soon as we step through those doors, we should be safe.

Here’s hoping. “And that is?”

“Don’t let our relationship negatively affect your training.”

“Meaning?”

“Don’t let anything that happens in the relationship get in the way of your training.”

“Oh… that makes sense.”

“Would you like me to bring my bike over, or should we walk through the crowd together?”

“As tempting as the former is, I’d like be swarmed as a result.”

“As you wish. It’s right this way” he said, pointing toward the nearby bike rack with one hand, grabbing Allison’s hand with the other. Look out precious… the freaks are back.

Great. Just what we need right now.

Don’t worry. Just keep on walking, we’re almost there. “Sorry, no requests. School’s over and we don’t have the time.”

“But… you two are still on school grounds… you have to comply” one of the boys said as the group quickly surrounded them.

“True, but so do you. Remember, you are all in the Program now.”

“Uhm… never mind then. Let’s go guys.”

“Yes leader.” the rest of the group replied.

Emanuel watched the group quickly retreat. “I was hoping that would work.” Emanuel closed the distance to the bike, Allison’s hand still in his. He quickly grabbed her bags. Okay, this one there, then… that should work. Now for mine and… “Ready precious?”

“Yes. How did you know how to get all the bags to fit?”

Emanuel climbed onto the bike. “General strength with spatial challenges and the training I suppose. I’ve never really thought much about it.” Emanuel felt Allison climb onto the bike, wrapping her arms around him as he started to peddle. “Precious, is there something wrong?” he asked after a few silent minutes passed.

“I’m trying not to focus on the wind hitting my body. Riding naked is very uncomfortable.”

“Agreed. Next time we need to go somewhere, we put on our clothes first.”

“Yeah. How much further is the dojo?”

Emanuel quickly glanced at his surroundings again. “Not too much longer. Two or three minutes maybe?”

“Good. Is it bad that I’m still nervous?”

“About meeting Sensei? Not really. I remember I was all nerves when I first met him. You have nothing to worry about. You have my word.” Emanuel felt Allison lay her head on his shoulder. There’s the Chinese restaurant, so one more block. “Brace yourself precious… I’ve never attempted to park my bike here with two people on it before.”

“Okay.”

Emanuel felt her grip tighten. Good, no traffic around. That should make getting to the other side of the street easy. Emanuel quickly maneuvered across the street, and in one motion came to a stop in the nearby bike rack. “We’re here.”

“Really? This doesn’t look like a dojo.”

“Really. It looks a lot more like a dojo inside. I promise.”

“Uhm… won’t your Sensei mind that we’re naked?”

Emanuel felt Allison’s arms loosen as she stepped off the bike. He quickly followed suit, securing the bike with its lock a moment later. “I don’t believe so, but if you wish you can wait in the changing area after I dress, and I can bring your uniform to you. Or, you could always quickly pull on some of your clothing from this morning.”

“I’ll take option one. How thick is the curtain?”

Emanuel quickly grabbed their duffels from the bike, slinging his over one shoulder and grabbing hers in the other hand. “It’s one of those beaded ones, but they’re close together. You have nothing to worry about. Are you ready precious?”

“I suppose.”

“You’ll be fine. I promise”. Emanuel watched the nervous look lessen a little as Allison grabbed his hand again. He quietly started on his way into the dojo’s entrance hall. “See?”

“Yeah… I still wish it was solid cloth though.”

“I didn’t realize you were in the Program Kenshi Emanuel. You may enter with your special friend now if you’d like.”

“How did he know we were… oh, right.”

“Precious, obviously Sensei isn’t bothered by our nakedness. Do you want to just enter and get your uniform?”

“But what about the other students?”

“The only other student here right now is Kara, and she’s already seen you.”

“May I ask your name friend of Kenshi Emanuel?”

“Allison, Sensei.”

“I appreciate what you are doing, but it is not necessary until you decide to study here. Do you wish to watch a lesson first, or would you like to jump right in?”

“I’d like to jump right in please Sensei.”

“Very well Kenshi Allison. I will send Kenshi Kara out with a uniform that should fit you. Kenshi Kara, please assist Kenshi Allison.”

“I think a medium should fit you. Here Kenshi Allison.”

Emanuel watched Allison quietly grab the uniform that made its way through the curtain. “Thank you Kara.”

“For future reference, within the dojo, it’s always Kenshi, then the person’s name. Don’t worry if it takes you a little while to get used to it, Kenshi Allison.”

“Thank you Kenshi Kara. Manny, why does the word Kenshi keep coming up so much?”

“I’ll tell you inside the changing area. I’d suggest you wear a bra under the uniform though.”

“Right. Hand me my duffel please?”

Emanuel quickly handed Allison her duffel bag, then reached into his for underwear and his uniform. “That room is the changing area.”

“Oh… it’s not bad. So?”

“Right. Kenshi is the word for student. It’s a term of respect.”

“In the same way you use Sensei for your teacher?”

“Our teacher, but otherwise correct. That really does fit you well.”

“You’re only saying that because it’s form fitting.”

“Is it wrong for me to think you’re beautiful?”

“No. How do I bow again?”

“Just like this”. Emanuel put his feet together and brought his hands together at chest height. “Then bow, and hold it until Sensei says to be seated.”

“Okay. And I do this as soon as we step through the curtain?”

“Correct. It looks like Ken is near.” Emanuel quietly put their bags inside one of the cubbies.

“You mean you feel he’s arrived.”

“Same idea.” Emanuel watched with concern as Allison stood before the curtain. “If you’re still nervous just repeat what I do.” Emanuel stepped through the curtain, raised his hands together, and waited. He watched Allison do the same a second later.

“Please sit down and prepare your spirits Kenshi Emanuel and Allison. Kenshi Emanuel, please guide Kenshi Allison in anything she needs to know.”

Emanuel bowed quickly and found an empty spot on the mat near Kara. He watched Allison take the spot next to him. This preparation is fairly simple. Breath in and out slowly, focusing on each breath as it enters and leaves your body.

Won’t Sensei be angry that you’re not speaking this to me?

Even if he doesn’t know exactly how, he’ll know I’m giving you all the information you need. Just continue to focus on your breath until it’s time for us to stretch and say the oath.

“Kenshi Ken, please sit and prepare your spirit. Kenshi Allison will become your partner until Kenshi Paul recovers.”

“Yes Sensei.”

When did he come in?

He stepped through the curtain a few moments ago. He seemed kind of confused about the additional duffel bag though.

Hopefully it all makes sense to him now. How much longer will we be doing this?

As long as Sensei deems it necessary. Have patience precious.

Allison

Allison felt her body finally relax what felt like hours later.

“Kenshi, we will start the lesson with stretching.”

Huh?

Did Sensei catch you off guard?

Yeah.

Then you know you were properly prepared. Follow what I do.

This stretch seems familiar.

Have you ever taken Yoga?

Yes. Why do you ask?

Similar preparatory practices. After all, the point is to get the muscles ready.

True enough. Ouch.

You okay precious?

Yeah. I’d forgotten how much stretching can hurt.

It’s better than getting injured. We’re almost done anyway.

Good. Then what?

Well, since Ken needs the refresher, and you’re new here, Sensei will probably do a review of the basics. Then, if there’s time, he may teach me and Kara something new.

I hope there’s time then.

“Kenshi, that’s enough stretching. Kenshi Ken grab a blocking pad, Kenshi Allison pay attention to what Kenshi Kara and Emanuel show you.”

Allison stood up and moved over to where Ken was standing with a foam pad. Is this typical sweetheart?

Not really, but it makes sense that Sensei would ask this of us. After all, how better to show that we know what we’ve been taught then by teaching it? Make sure to pay equal attention to where Kara will be hitting me, and how she does it.

Okay. Allison watched Emanuel and Kara bow toward each other. Is that the normal foot position to use?

Indeed.

Allison watched as Kara’s arms started to punch Emanuel in alternate strikes. Wait, that doesn’t look like punching I’m familiar with.

Martial arts techniques are very different from ones found in your average street fight. Do you see how Kara’s body turns as she punches, and sounds kind of like a snapping noise?

Yeah.

That allows all the moving energy of the body to be put into each punch. They’re much stronger and precise as a result. Oh, and they’re a lot harder for the average street brawler to stop too.

Why?

You know how street brawlers sometimes wind back for a punch?

Allison watched Kara stop. Yes. Why is that important?

Because, it’s a lot easier to see that coming than the quick punches you just saw. Now you try… don’t worry about hurting Ken.

Okay. Allison mimicked Kara's motions, and felt a small vibration as each punch landed on the pad. Is this small aftershock normal?

Allison watched Emanuel nod his head. Think about when you learned about forces in physics. It should make sense.

Oh, right. When should I stop punching?

Allison watched Emanuel in thought for a moment. About ten more should do.

Allison turned her attention back to the punching and counted down each one. Three... two... one. She stopped for a moment and breathed in and out a few times. Now what?

Blocking of course. It's not good enough to know only how to attack. Allison looked down for a second. No need to punish yourself for not knowing that.

But, I should have realized that.

Remember the oath? We come into this assuming we know nothing. Therefore, you have nothing to worry about.

Allison felt a pout appear on her face. If you say so.

Allison watched Emanuel turn towards her and lightly shake his head. A pout? Precious, a smile is far more becoming on you. Now, watch what Kara does as I take the lead and attack. Allison watched Kara’s arm move to block each punch Emanuel aimed at her.

I think I get it. Does that work the same way for kicks?

Nope. Kicks get deflected away from the body. Although, with training you can learn to deflect or even step out of the way of attacks. Think you can try it?

Allison smiled. It looks easy enough. Allison looked at the large pad Ken was holding. Do I need that pad?

Allison watched him shake his head. That pad is too big for that kind of training. She watched his finger point towards a smaller set of pads nearby. Those fit on your arms, and are much better suited for the job. Go ahead and grab them.

Allison walked over to the wall and grabbed the small arm pads, then made her way back to in front of Ken. She caught the slightest look of confusion on his face as he attempted to force a smile. “Are you ready Kenshi Allison?”

She smiled back, realizing just what he was confused about. He hasn’t picked up on our gift yet, has he?

Allison watched Emanuel smile at her. I doubt most of the people around us have picked up on our gift. Sensei’s probably the sole exception right now. Are you up for a little wager?

Sure. What are the conditions? “Yes Kenshi Ken.”

Allison felt a punch hit her chest. Pay a little more attention to his strikes. You’ll see the motion he makes when he’s readying a punch. I’ll tell you the terms after you finish with this. Allison focused all of her attention on Ken, and raised her arm as the next punch came flying in.

Yes! Got one! Suddenly, another punch landed right in her solar plexus. Allison doubled over for a moment. Ouch… that actually hurt.

Allison stood back up and looked over at Emanuel. She watched him shake his head with a pained look on his face. Remember something precious… when in combat or training never take your focus off of your opponent or partner. Just be glad that punch wasn’t at full strength.

Allison felt a look of shock appear on her face. That was pulled?

Yeah. Not well, but enough that it wasn’t the best he could have hit with.

“Are you okay Kenshi Allison?” she heard Ken ask.

Allison breathed in and out a few times, then turned back towards Ken. “Yes Kenshi Ken. Please continue.” Allison resumed her footing and watched Ken do the same. Okay, focus on Ken. Allison watched the next punch snap towards her stomach, and moved the pad just in time. Only a few more, and he'll be done.

Watch out precious. Sometimes Ken decides to be fancy and do the last few in rapid succession.

Okay. Allison watched Ken's right hand come flying in towards her stomach, and quickly moved the pad into position. Suddenly, just as the right hand started to pull back, the left came flying in. Ahh... this is what Manny meant. If I shift the pad just a little to the right... got it! Allison smiled as Ken repeated this pattern two more times, slowly enough to give her time to move the pad into the proper position. Allison's smile brightened as a surprised look crossed Ken's face.

Uh-oh... Ken shouldn't have done that. Sensei is standing up and heading towards you two.

Do I need to do anything?

Not until he gets to you. Just remain respectful and bow towards him like you did to Ken.

“Kenshi Ken, that was a very disrespectful thing you just did. Maybe your old partner was used to it, but a new partner demands care until you are used to each other.” Allison watched Ken bow with his head hung low.

“Understood Sensei.”

Allison watched the Sensei turn towards her. “Kenshi Allison, you did very well in blocking those punches. However, I feel it unfair to ask you to continue today with a partner who does not understand the caution one takes with a new partner. Therefore, I will end the lesson early today. I hope you will return and learn more with us.”

Allison smiled and bowed. “Thank you Sensei. I will definitely return another day.” Allison's smile broadened as the look of worry left the Sensei's face. She watched him turn once again towards Ken.

“Kenshi Ken, as your action reflected poorly on yourself and this dojo, I feel an apology is called for towards Kenshi Allison. Understood?”

Allison watched Ken bow with his head low again. “Yes Sensei.” She watched him turn towards her. “Kenshi Allison, I should not have treated you as if you were my last partner. I am deeply sorry and ask your forgiveness.”

Allison's smile brightened even more. “I accept your apology.”

“Very well Kenshi, you may all leave. Kenshi Ken, I would like you to stay behind so I may discuss something with you. Kenshi Allison, the shower room is in the back of the changing area.”

Now what sweetheart?

Reverse the process we did coming in. Bow when we're at the curtain, then step through.

Emanuel

Emanuel glanced again up at the clock in entrance hall. It's a good thing Sensei allowed us to finish early. She's been in that shower for a half hour now.

Yes, so? Getting ready for a nice date usually takes longer.

Not when all you really need to do is quickly clean your body. It's not like your hair needed washing.

Actually, it did. Besides, I'm fast for a girl.

Really? And I suppose you're almost ready then.

“Finished actually”. Emanuel turned around and couldn't believe his eyes. He attempted to open his mouth, but somehow couldn't. He watched the smile that crossed Allison's face. “Speechless huh? Mom was right about this one.”

“She certainly was. You look gorgeous my precious.” Emanuel looked again at the dress Allison was wearing – a sleeveless, full length, skin tight black dress that managed to show just enough cleavage to catch his eyes.

“You mentioned a wager earlier?”

Emanuel looked quickly at the clock again. “I completely forgot what I was going to propose earlier. Besides, we should be on our way – we're due to meet Emily and Tony in fifteen minutes.”

“Best not to keep them waiting then. By the way, you look very handsome yourself.”

Emanuel felt himself blush a deep red. “Thanks.” He smiled and grabbed Allison's left hand with one hand, and his duffel with the other. He smiled as a smile appeared on Allison's face, and started towards the door.

“Manny? Do we need to ride the bike there? I don't know how comfortable I'd be riding like this.”

“Not at all. We can make it there in ten minutes walking. I'll just need a moment to secure the bags in the basket. Give me a second, okay?”

“Okay.” Emanuel turned towards the bike and carefully loaded both bags into the basket, then reached into his bag. Now where is that spare rope? Right, in the front pocket. Emanuel took the rope, folded it in half and fed the folded end through the handles of the bags. Now, it goes under the bags and through the basket, then back around and through the bight. Pull tight, feed each end under it's nearest side and finish with a square knot.

He smiled. “Perfect.” His eyes traveled quickly to Allison's eyes, which were wide open in amazement.

“Where did you learn how to do that?”

“You know the town dock right?” he asked, watching her nod her head. “The last two summers I worked there. Naturally I worked out by the boats a lot, and I managed to pick up a few tricks with ropes and knots.” He paused for a moment, than continued “Actually, I'm surprised you didn't see me there.”

He watched Allison look down for a moment. “I haven’t been down there in years” she answered nervously. “Is there anything else you need to do?”

Emanuel smiled and grabbed the right handlebar of the bike. “Nope. Would you mind grabbing the other handlebar? I don't know how steady I can keep the bike by myself.” He watched a smile appear on her face as she did just that and started to walk. He smiled back and started to walk as well, finding himself lost in her eyes.

Suddenly he looked up and noticed the restaurant approaching. “We're here already? Didn't we just start walking a few minutes ago?” Allison asked, her face turning towards the awning.

His smile deepened. “Seems that way, doesn't it? I'm just amazed we didn't accidentally hit anyone as lost in the moment as we were.”

“That's the dumbest thing I've ever heard. It's kind of hard to miss a pair of people walking a bicycle like you were” Emanuel heard Tony quip.

Emanuel spun around, face to face with Tony and Emily, less than a foot behind him. “When did you guys get here?”

“We've been behind you for the past ten minutes, trying to get your attention. Talk about being lost in lala land.”

Emanuel sighed lightly. “Fair enough Tony. Incidentally, you both look very nice.” He turned back towards the bike and started to undo the knot.

“Nice rigging job there. One question though – why didn't you finish it off?”

Emanuel glanced back at Tony. “Why bother? That would have just created more work for me to do to untie it.”

“True enough.”

Emanuel finished untying the knot, then quickly recoiled the rope. He was hoping for something more in that answer, wasn't he? Very odd... I'm sure I'll find out later. He dropped the rope back into it's pouch, closed it, and lifted the bags out of the basket, handing one to Allison. “Go in ahead of me, I need a minute to lock up the bike.”

Manny, is Tony acting a little strange right now?

Yeah. I didn't know he knew how to work with rope. Could you keep an eye on him until I'm done out here?

Of course. He watched Allison grab his bag as well. Might as well get both checked in at once.

True. Thanks precious.

Allison

Allison quickly made her way towards the maitre'd. “Ah, Signora Kirse, benvenuto. Would you like to check your bags?”

Allison smiled and held out the bags. “Yes please. How is your family Giovanni?”

“Molto bene” he said, pausing for a moment. “Forgive me signora, I forgot you do not yet speak Italian.”

Allison chuckled. “You worry too much Giovanni. I do now know Italian, even if it is only rudimentary.” She smiled as the door opened and Emanuel made his way toward her. “Giovanni, this Emanuel, my beloved. Manny, this is Giovanni.”

Allison watched Emanuel smile. “It's been too long Giovanni.”

“Indeed signore. How is your father?”

Allison watched a frown settle on Emanuel's face and reached for his hand, gripping it lightly. “Not well. He never did recover after Mom passed.”

“She is missed by many. Forgive me, I fear I have held you too long. Enjoy your date.” Allison felt her face start to grow red. “Don't think me a fool signora. I've been in this business for many years.”

“Right. Let's go find Emily and Tony” Allison said nervously, looking into the main portion of the restaurant. “Ahh! They're they are, right in the back” she said, sliding her hand up to Emanuel's arm and started walking rapidly.

“No need to pull so hard precious.”

“Took you long enough. Did you get lost in lala land again?” Emily snarked.

Allison glared at Emily. “Very funny. We were merely catching up with Giovanni.”

“Whatever. Hurry up and decide what you want... I'm hungry.”

Allison glared again. So, any favorites here?

Not really. Unless they've changed chefs recently, I remember everything being pretty good.

How about we try today's special?

Actually, that sounds like a good idea. I'm sure it's nice and fresh.

Allison looked up as their waiter approached, and look at Emanuel and Tony. “Buona sera signore. Are you ready to order?”

Tony answered first. “I'll have the penne summer salad.”

The waiter turned to Emily. “Signora?”

“I'll have the ravioli with the red sauce.”

“And you Signore?” he asked, looking at Emanuel.

“We'll have the fish special” Emanuel answered. Allison watched an odd smile appear on Tony's face.

Manny, did you catch that smile from Tony just now?

No, what kind was it?

Allison thought for a moment. Almost one of those “aha” or “I knew it” ones.

Hmm... I'm sure I'll find out before too long what he's thinking about.

“Anything to drink?”

Allison watched Emanuel look around at everyone. “Is water okay for everyone?” She watched Tony and Emily nod their heads.

“Va bene.” Allison gripped Emanuel's hand under the table. A few moments later, she looked up in surprise as the waiter approached with a bottle of wine and four glasses. “A gift from Signore Giovanni to celebrate your first dates here.”

Allison looked at the bottle questioningly, then turned toward the waiter. “Does he do this often?”

The waiter thought for a moment. “Mi dispiace. I can not say either way – I am too new here. I will be back shortly with your food.”

Allison looked at Emanuel and Tony. “Huh... Do either of you know the quality of this bottle?”

Tony smiled. “From the look of it, that's the house White Zinfandel. It's actually quite good.” Allison watched Tony pour some into the four glasses, handing one to everyone. He lifted his and began “To an enchanting and enlightening evening.”

Allison watched Emanuel lift his. “Salute”. Allison followed suit as Emily did, and noticed Emanuel look down at his watch.

Emanuel

Emanuel looked down at his watch again. Five minutes and counting.

Sweetheart, what are you doing?

Measuring how long this awkward silence is going to go on for.

He watched her sigh loudly. Rather than timing it, why don't you do something about it?

Fair enough.

Emanuel started to open his mouth when Tony spoke up. “So, interesting week we've had so far, huh?”

“Right... and I'm sure you're looking forward to your Program week” he heard Emily quip back. He watched Allison glare openly at Emily.

Emanuel sighed. “Really guys, do we need to discuss Program stuff now? I think Allison would agree with me that that's not proper dinner material. Aren't you more interested in getting to know each other?”

He watched Tony's head drop a little. “Sorry... it was the best I could think of at the moment.” Emanuel watched as Allison continued to glare.

“Yeah... I'm sorry I jumped on you like that. Old miss-conceptions are hard to get rid of.”

She's not being sincere, is she precious?

Yeah. Let me see if a private chat helps to change anything. “I need to check my make-up. Care to join me Emily?” he watched her ask, a slightly evil smile on her face.

A grimace appeared on Emily's face. “Sure...”

Emanuel watched Allison get up. You girls sure are effective. She looks like she's about to go in front of a firing squad.

That's not entirely inaccurate.

Emanuel watched Tony nervously watch the girls walk away, and breathe in. “Are you Allison's Dom?”

“Allison's what?”

“I take that as a no.”

“Really, what do you mean by that? I'm not familiar with the word.”

Emanuel watched Tony's nervousness return. “I'm not sure of the best way to explain it... but here goes nothing. You know how during the main season, when Coach says run five miles one week, we do? How whatever he says we respect and do?”

Emanuel nodded. “Yeah.”

“Well, that's kind of what being a Dominant is like. Their submissive has given control to them over some or all of his/her life.”

“Ah, okay. Just out of curiosity, what led you to think that?” He watched Tony breath a sigh of relief.

“Your skill with that rope earlier, and the fact that you ordered for her earlier.”

“Well, the rope work I picked up down at the docks”.

Emanuel watched Tony slap his forehead. “Right... I should have remembered about that. And the other thing?”

Precious, do you mind if I let Tony in on our gift?

Not at all. I'm still working on Emily anyway, so you have a little time.

Good enough. “I don't know if you'll believe me, but here goes. We're able to communicate telepathically with each other.”

Emanuel watched a look of incredulity appear on Tony's face. “That sounds a bit... crazy... but I suppose I can accept that.” The look remained.

“You want proof of some kind, don't you?”

“Yeah.”

“By the time we finish tonight you'll have your proof.” You about done precious?

Yeah. We're on our way back. How did Tony take it?

He's a bit skeptical and expects proof by the end of the night.

Same sort of thing that we did with Emily?

Yeah... and I know exactly what will work too. By the way, I found out what he had suspicions about.

Really? And that was?

He thought you were my submissive. Emanuel watched as their waiter returned with their food. By the way, the food has arrived.

Yay... What the heck is a submissive?

Ask him later... that can be the proof. Emanuel watched the waiter finish placing the plates on the table.

“Enjoy your meal.”

“Grazie.” Tony replied.

Emanuel watched the girls return. “Ooh... the food's here. Let's dig in” Emily remarked.

And after all that I said... Oh well, it's her loss if she doesn't talk to Tony. “Looks delicious.”

“That it does. Let's eat everyone.” Let's see if it truly is.

How so sweetheart?

If it's good, there shouldn't be any conversation for at least ten minutes... maybe more. Emanuel glanced down at his watch, then turned to his food.

Any idea what type of fish this is sweetheart?

I think it's salmon. There's a spice here I can't quite place though. He looked down at his watch again. See what I mean? It's been ten minutes so far, and not a peep from either Tony or Emily.

How about what we're doing? Wouldn't this count?

Not really... we don't need to stop eating to communicate like this. Besides, even we stayed completely silent for the ten minutes.

Okay, fair enough. Any ideas how break the silence?

I might have something. Give me a second to figure out how to word it. Emanuel turned to Tony. “Now, I know a lot about you, and Allison knows a lot about Emily. Why don't we share some old stories to help acquaint you two?” I predict Tony will love the idea, and Emily will hate it.

She's not giving him a fair chance & doesn't know what she's missing.

I have a few stories that might catch her attention. Emanuel turned towards the girls. “Here's one for starters. Do either of you remember the Shakespeare class that was proposed last year?”

He watched Emily's eyes raise a little. “Yeah” she said, pausing. “I was part the group that established the petition for it. We got enough signatures too... stupid Benerdon went and vetoed it.”

“Right. Well, I remember the day Tony spent half of practice talking about nothing but how excited he was for even the possibility of the class. In fact, I believe he was the first to sign the petition.”

Emanuel smiled covertly as Emily's eyes lit up. “Really?”

“Yeah, He was seriously pissed off when Benerdon pulled her little stunt.”

“Let me guess – that very day he nearly destroyed a perfectly good practice dummy.” Emily responded. Emanuel shivered at the venom the sentence was saturated with. Suddenly, he heard her exclaim “ouch!”, then mutter almost inaudibly “stupid bitch.”

Uhm, precious, what did you just do?

I promised if she acted up again, I'd put my heels to good use. He watched an evil smile flash on Allison's face for a few seconds, only to be replaced by more glaring at Emily.

I don't think it helped. She looks more surly than before.

Emanuel watched the glare turn into a frown. Yeah, I think this is the best we can hope for the night. “I'm feeling kind of tired. Perhaps we should get dessert to go, and call it a night.”

Emanuel watched the pained look on Tony's face. “I suppose so.” Emanuel looked up and watched their waiter return.

“Was the meal to your liking?”

Emanuel smiled. “As always.”

Allison

Allison looked up at the waiter. “Is the dessert display accurate today?”

“Indeed signora. Would you care to take a look?”

Allison smiled. “Of course.” She watched as Emanuel shot a quick glance at Tony.

“I think I'll join you.”

Do you want anything sweetheart?

I'm fine.

The waiter pointed towards a glass case on the wall. “This way signore.”

Allison followed quietly, watching Tony’s pained face grow worse. “I really fucked up, didn’t I?”

Allison patted him on the shoulder. “Not at all. You were understandably nervous. Emily’s just being bitchy and stubborn, that’s all.”

She watched a confused look appear on his face. “Then why did Emanuel suggest I join you?”

“You and he were talking about submissives earlier. What is that?”

She watched the shock appear on his face. “Holy shit… he wasn’t kidding. That’s actually pretty cool.”

Precious, Emily’s heading out on her own. I tried to reason with her, but…

Allison sighed. I figured she might try that. Don’t worry about it. She pointed to a dessert. “I’d like a piece of that, to go please.”

The waiter smiled. “Certainly signora. Signore?”

“I’d like that, to go as well”

“Benissimo.”

Allison watched Tony turn towards her. “Let me guess” he paused “she left already”. Allison nodded her head. “Oh well.”

He’s really bummed about Emily sweetheart.

I’m not surprised. Do you have your desserts yet?

Yeah, we just got them. Is there anything else we need to do?

Nope, we’re all paid up, and I have the bike ready to go. Oh, did you get a chance to give Tony his proof yet?

Allison smiled. Yeah, but he hasn’t explained it yet.

Remind him then.

“So, you never told me just what a submissive is…”

She watched a look of embarrassment replace Tony’s frown. “Oops, right” he paused in thought. “Basically, he or she gives control one or more areas of his or her life to someone else.”

She smiled. “So you took our gift as that? Interesting.”

“If you want to know more, I have a few books I can lend you two.”

“Maybe. Let me see what Manny thinks.” Manny, sweetheart, Tony has offered to lend us some books on that submissive thing. Interested?

It’s worth maybe looking into. Would you be okay with that?

So long as we play that by ear. I mean, it sounds interesting, but…

Allison rounded the corner to the coat check, just in time to see Emanuel smile by the bike. I understand, not a problem.

Allison smiled at Tony. “We’re interested in your offer.”

“Okay. I can bring them to school tomorrow. Get home safe you two.”

Allison smiled, and quickly sat on the bike behind Emanuel. “You too… and don’t sweat about Emily too much. Hopefully she’ll come around soon.”

She watched a half smile quickly cross his face. “I’ll try.”

Ready precious?

Yeah. Do you anticipate any problem with your dad?

Hopefully he should be asleep by now. If not, hopefully he’ll be too busy drinking. Anyway, Emily aside, did you have fun?

Yeah. How about you?

Yeah. “I almost can’t believe the week is half over” she heard him state.

Allison wrapped her arms around Emanuel. “I don’t know about that. This week feels like it has dragged on.” She felt a tense silence lapse for a moment.

“Precious, I’m sorry. What I said came out a bit insensitive.”

“Don’t worry about it sweetheart. I know how you meant it.”

She felt a sigh of relief from him. “That’s good.”

Allison watched the buildings go by for awhile, and then closed her eyes. “I wish I could stay like this forever.”

“Me too, but we’ll get to your house before too long. We’ll just have to look forward to tomorrow.”

“True.” Then I might as well enjoy this as long as I can. Allison felt the world start to disappear.

What seemed moments later, she heard Emanuel say “We’re here precious.”

“Already?”

She watched him turn around and face her. “It’s been nearly twenty minutes precious.”

She smiled weakly. “I forgot how much time tends to fly.” She paused for a second. “You’ll see me to my door, right?”

She watched the smile light up on his face. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.” He stepped off the bike slowly, grabbed her bag, and offered her his right hand. “Ready precious?”

She smiled and took his hand, climbing off the bike. “Yes sweetheart.” She wrapped her left arm with his right, and started towards the door. As they reached the front of it, she watched as he stopped her and put down her bag.

“Tomorrow then” he said, as she felt herself get pulled close to him. She felt the world disappear again as they kissed tenderly. What felt like moments later, she felt him pull away from her. “I’ll let you know when I get home, okay?”

She felt her smile brighten. “Of course.” She watched as he walked back to the bike, climbed on, and headed off. Suddenly the door opened.

“Okay young lady, inside” her mom said with a small smile on her face. “Can I assume it went well?”

Allison looked puzzled for a moment. “For the most part, yes. How did you know?”

Allison sat down across from her where her mom had settled at the table. “Only good dates end with ten minutes of kissing.”

“We kissed that long?”

She watched her mom chuckle slightly. “Ah… the bliss of young romance. What went wrong?”

“Emily. She couldn’t get past her prejudices, and hurt a decent guy in the process.”

“Hopefully she comes around. What did Emanuel think of the dress?”

Allison smiled. “He was speechless.”

“Perfect. How did the Kempo class go?”

She smiled again. “I enjoyed it. Can I continue studying?”

“As long as your grades stay up and it's okay with the teacher.”

Allison leaped up from the chair, ran around and hugged her mom. “Yay!” Allison started towards the stairs.

“Wait a second... before you head upstairs to do whatever homework you have...”

Allison turned back, slightly surprised. “Actually, I don't have any today” she said, pausing. “What is it mom?”

“You were acting a little strange this morning, but you seem okay now. What happened?”

“Remember what I was telling you about Monday?” Allison watched her mother nod her head. “Well, Ms. Luden had the right ballpark, but the wrong disorder.”

“And you were affected again this morning?”

Allison nodded her head. “Yeah, only this morning I felt trapped, not safe. Only Manny managed to help me out of it.”

“And do you know the cause of this disorder?”

“It's called depersonalization disorder mom. And yes, I do. Did Uncle Martin ever do anything to me when I was eight?”

Allison watched a look of pain appear on her mom's face. “You remember that?”

“For the first time, yeah. Although I still haven't remembered what happened after you fainted.”

“I didn't come to for a good hour or two, and was still in shock for awhile after that. I would need your father to help fill in the blanks. Anyway, I'm afraid bringing up more details might trigger that feeling again.”

Allison frowned. “That's possible. Maybe it would be better if Manny is around when you guys tell me more.”

Allison watched her mom smile. “It seems we owe this young man a lot. When can we expect this talk then?”

Allison paused for a moment. “Maybe Friday after Kempo? I'm pretty sure he has practice tomorrow.”

“That sounds fair. What would you like to do for your birthday?”

“I haven't thought about it. Maybe a small party?”

“Here or somewhere else?”

“Is there room in the budget for a restaurant?”

She watched her mom smile. “I think I know the perfect place. And perhaps you'd like him to spend the night afterward?”

Allison felt herself blush deep red. “Yeah... Are you sure dad won't mind that?”

“It sounds like you might really love this boy. Besides, I'm sure I can soothe any worries your father might have.”

Manny, would you like to sleep over the night of my birthday party?

Of course. I didn't know I was invited.

Allison felt herself smile brightly. Of course I'd invite you. I haven't mentioned it yet because mom just got me thinking about it now. She paused for a second. Are you almost home?

I just pulled into the driveway. Thankfully, dad seems to be asleep.

“So?”

“What do you think the answer was mom?”

She barely picked up on the low laugh her mother laughed. “Don't forget to ask him about our talk.”

Oh, before I forget again, mom and dad can fill in some of the details of what happened with my uncle. I'd like it if you could be there to support me when they do.

When did you have in mind?

Friday after Kempo?

Sure. So should I bring a few days worth of clothing with me?

Yeah. Although, who knows if some sort of mandatory outreach may come up.

We'll cross that bridge if and when it happens. Anyway, the sooner I get to sleep, the less chance I risk of dad waking up. Sleep well my precious.

You too sweetheart.

“It must be nice being able to communicate as easily as you two can”.

Allison smiled. “Yeah. Is there anything else we need to talk about tonight?”

“Nothing that can't wait. Sleep well sweetie.”

Allison started back towards the stairs. “You too mom.”

She quietly climbed up the stairs, letting her thoughts start to drift. A few minutes later, she climbed into bed. Good night Manny.

Good night precious.

I wonder what tomorrow will bring? she wondered. Finally, she felt her eyes close as peace overtook her.

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to be continued

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Pursuant to the Berne Convention, this written work is copyrighted with all rights reserved by the author unless explicitly indicated. For questions or concerns, email technite86@yahoo.com. Copyright 2012