Rememberances
part 4
"And this is Amanda..."
By Pat
“Okay, everybody, how about we get out of here and go get something to eat?” Luka urged.
“But Luka, I want to ride on the Ferris wheel…you promised we’d go on the rides!” Davie protested vehemently.
“You’re right, Davie, I did promise, we’ll stay.” He sighed. He would just have to face the music when it arrived in the form of the tall, voluptuous, brunette immortal. And judging from the sensation he was feeling, it was going to be soon.
Both men turned to look as Amanda approached the little group. MacLeod realized she hadn’t noticed him yet, or at least was pretending not to notice him, she was advancing straight toward Luka. Glancing at his friend, he had to smile. He most definitely had that deer-in-the-headlight look pasted all over his face. He decided to take pity on Luka, or maybe it was Melanie he was trying to protect.
“Amanda, darling!” MacLeod exclaimed as he stepped forward, catching her in his arms in a passionate, albeit restraining, embrace, capturing her mouth with his in a long, deep kiss. He could feel her wrap her body around his. When he released her lips, he whispered in her ear, “I don’t know what you have in mind, but if you do anything or say anything to upset Luka or his lady, I swear I will take my sword to you.”
Amanda laughed softly; she had known MacLeod for way too many years to be intimidated by his threat. “Why MacLeod, here I thought you were happy to see me?” She purred, and leaning in even closer to him observed, “Well part of you is very glad I’m here.”
“Behave yourself, Amanda.” He growled. “We’ll explore that subject later, my dear, for now just act like a lady!”
“You are such a Boy Scout, MacLeod.” Amanda sighed. “Now introduce me.”
Duncan led Amanda over to where Luka, Melanie, and Davie waited. “Luka, good to see you again!” Amanda said as she reached up to kiss him on the cheek.
“Hello Amanda, good seeing you too.” Luka replied. He breathed a sigh of relief. He alone had realized what Duncan had been up to, and telegraphed a silent thank-you to MacLeod.
“Amanda, let me introduce you to this beautiful lady, the love of my life.” Luka stated as he led Amanda over to Melanie. “Melanie, I’d like you to meet a friend, Amanda Darieux. Amanda, this is Melanie Lowell.” At this point Luka placed an arm around Melanie’s waist, pulling her closer to his side.
Melanie’s heart was heavy and her confidence sank as she watched the tall, exquisitely beautiful woman kiss Luka. How could she compete with that? She had always considered herself to be a plain Jane. She wouldn’t have believed anyone had they told her she was very pretty, but it was her inner gentleness and kind heart that truly made her beautiful. Her spirits rose at Luka’s words and the feel of his arm about her was reassuring. She loved him even more, if that was possible, at this moment.
As Amanda shook the hand Melanie offered and acknowledged the introduction, she was appraising the woman who stood before her. Pretty, she thought, seemed rather sweet and soft, perfect for Luka. While Amanda had enjoyed those nights in Luka’s bed, he was not for her. His idea of happiness involved a house and a white picket fence. Not so Amanda. She craved adventure, loved traveling, and at times, staying one step ahead of the law. In her 1000 plus years on this earth, she had many occupations, circus performer, nightclub singer, harem girl, but most of all, Amanda had been an exceptionally successful thief. There was no lock she couldn’t pick, or security system she couldn’t outwit. However, MacLeod had changed that. Now, for the most part, she avoided lawbreaking, but sometimes that could be so boring!
She glanced down at Davie who was staring up at her with wide eyes and wonder at the lady dressed in feathers, glittery rhinestones and sequins. “And who are you, little ankle biter?” Amanda jokingly asked, softly placing a finger under Davie’s chin.
“Davie! What do you say to the lady?” Melanie gently scolded as her son continued to stare up at Amanda.
“You’re pretty!” He exclaimed loudly. The tension in the air lessened at this point as the laughter ensued.
“Well, at least there is one gentleman in the group.” Amanda chuckled, as she glanced pointedly at Duncan and Luka. “Thank you, kind sir, for the compliment.” She told Davie as she ruffled his hair.
After a short discussion, it was decided they would take Davie on his promised carnival rides while Amanda changed after which they would all go to dinner. Melanie rolled her eyes and shook her head as she noted how both Luka and Duncan stared at Amanda’s backside as she walked away. Of course, it didn’t help that said backside was covered by a skintight leotard and tights. Men, she decided, can’t live with them, just can’t shoot them.
Luka’s attention was diverted when he heard Melanie clear her throat rather forcefully. Realizing he was quickly heading for trouble, he said, “Well, sweetheart, are we ready to go brave the rides?”
“More than ready.” Melanie replied through gritted teeth. Oh yes, Luka, acknowledged, he was definitely in the doghouse at the moment.
Leaning over to MacLeod, he whispered, “Do you think this is a good idea? Bringing Amanda along tonight?”
Duncan laughed softly, “Why, of course it is! One would think you had a guilty conscience or something.” He couldn’t resist ribbing Luka a bit. He glanced down as he felt Davie take his hand.
“Lets go, Duncan. Will you go on the rides with me?” Davie looked up hopefully at his new friend.
“Sure I will, Davie.” MacLeod answered the boy. “Lets go!” He carefully held the small hand and they began walking off in the direction of the Ferris wheel. “Coming?” He turned around, looking at Melanie and Luka.
Luka put his arm around Melanie, “Ready?” he asked. “Yes, I am.” She replied, giving him a rather frosty smile. She wasn’t really angry with him, but it wouldn’t hurt to make him wonder a bit, she decided.
As they trailed behind Davie and MacLeod, Luka contemplated that it was certainly going to be an interesting night. Thank goodness Melanie didn’t carry a sword, he might be in danger of losing his head, but then he remembered – Amanda did!