Part 40

Darcy’s visits to the Queens became a regular jaunt, one which afforded her many new friends and acquaintances, and many new experiences. The joy of a whole roomful of people who thought outside the box was just incomparable.

Countless nights bestow a gift

A newfound faith in hope and trust

A fledgling’s wary nature bowed

And freed from Iron Rose’s rust

A heart’s desire, a soul in tune

From equinox to harvest moon

As spring turned into summer, Darcy plied her leisure time to her new friends. She and the young Australian barmaid, Kara, had become firm friends and Darcy often helped out after closing.

One warm May Sunday, after the lunchtime trade had simmered down Darcy and Kara were clearing the tables outside. Both reached for the tray of empty glasses and their fingers met. Time seemed to stand still as their eyes met and an unspoken awareness sizzled between them.

After a moment they smiled and set about finishing the task at hand.

Pulse rate pounds and faces tingle

Unknown territory tests her truth

Inner core vibrates, excited

A feeling new to naïve youth

Wondrous mind explores ideas

While common sense extends, reveres

Kara waited until Darcy was looking the other way and threw a damp cloth at her legs. Darcy gasped, retrieved the cloth and threw it back. From that moment the two of them chased one another until they eventually took to the beach, kicking up the soft sand and running in and out of the surf, splashing each other like children.

Youthful banter, taunting games

Such childish, naïve aims to tease

Freedom found impulsive whim

A friendship born of minds at ease

Kindred spirits touch implies

A newfound bond between allies

Eventually Kara and Darcy sat on the sand to watch the sun descend gradually towards to the sea, the evening light bouncing off Kara’s fiery hair and tinting Darcy’s own auburn locks. They stayed long into the evening.