“Nope.”
“That’s no good. First rule of filmmaking, always show up ready for a shoot. You’re not ready to handle a bike if you haven’t got the energy to do so. Let’s have breakfast here. It’s the best place for it, too. The most delicious breakfast you’ll have on this island!”
“Let’s go,” I said with a smile, as I got off my bike.
***
Jeff made me laugh as he told stories from films he’d worked on over the years as I ate a stack of wholemeal pancakes, served with ricotta, maple syrup and blueberries.
“Really? He played a prank on his fellow actors by spraying them with a bottle made to look like an Evian bottle?"
“Yeah, everyone on set looked like they’d peed their pants at one time or another.”
I laughed…and made a mental note that I could expect being pranked by fellow actors! I’d been away from the industry for so long I’d forgotten about those pranks!
“These pancakes are divine,” I mumbled between bites.
“I know. I found this place years ago. Thought I’d give it a nod by including it in the plot ofSpeed Bumps. And they were thrilled about it. Not everyone likes having film crews around. Not least because they have a tendency to remodel properties to suit their interests.”
“Do you think I can get the recipe?” I asked. “These pancakes are much fluffier than the average ones I make.”
Jeff smiled and winked at me, mischief glittering in his eyes.
“Oh, I know the secret already.”
“Really? Hand it over!” I exclaimed.
“What do I get in return?”
“What do you want?”
“I’ll have a think. Now get off that bottom of yours and swallow the last bit, because we’re off. But don’t worry, I had them pack us some sandwiches and a thermos filled with coffee.”
We got outside and walked towards my bike, while putting on our helmets.
“I’ll drive first,” Jeff announced. “I want to get us to a safe spot for practice before you drive. There are some empty roads a bit further, and a field.”
I nodded, feeling relieved.
Jeff got on the bike, so did I.
“Hold on tight!” He said as he started it and I had no intention of doing otherwise. Falling off a bike would ruin my career right now.
As we made our way out onto the road and started driving, I couldn’t help but enjoy the sense of freedom. The beautiful exotic scenery made me relax and feel rejuvenated all at the same time — after a while I could even see the ocean, glittering like blue diamonds in the sunshine.
A few minutes into the ride I also became aware of the body in front of me. The hard packet of muscles I was holding onto, as well as the faint scent of aftershave and Jeff’s own, distinct scent. I felt safe. Protected. I didn’t want to pull away from him.
I also felt my body react in ways I’d forgotten. The excitement of feeling a new man’s body against yours…not that Jeff was naked, but I could easily imagine him without a shirt on. Holding onto his bare torso, feeling the strength of his muscles underneath my hands… My body started aching at the thought and I almost regretted turning him down the other night. Almost.
I sighed. If only relationships with men weren’t so complicated and you could keep that feeling of safety forever! But I knew from experience that men who felt safe could turn unsafe. Lust was an unpredictable thing.
