ROLEPLAY HQ - apple-flavored-kisses

TW: themes of adultery, mentions of infertility, sexual themes, spousal abuse emotional/physical It was an average Wednesday morning, the sounds of families going about their day in the neighborhood of Highland Acres. Large posh houses all looking similar in style and colors all neatly in rows around the cul-de-sac. Once upon a time this had been her dream, the white picket fence, children to call her own and a lovingly doting husband who took care of her wants and needs. Emerald green eyes hiding behind thick black rimmed sunglasses stared at a moving truck as it pulled into the house that had been vacant next to her own for the past year. Plump red lips pursed as two men in similar uniforms denoting they worked for a moving company began to go about their work. Poppy Mclaughlin had paused at the driver side of her white Jaguar XF. She hadn’t heard through the grapevine that they were getting a new community member, but that was likely due to the fact that the past few months the wife of Johnathan Mclaughlin had been keeping to herself. She clicked her tongue and opened the door to her car before sliding in. After shutting her door, Poppy pulled out her phone and quickly texted the neighborhood gossip to simply ask who her new neighbor was going to be. It didn’t take long after she sent the text and as soon as she had buckled, she received the response. [Oh my! You hadn’t heard; where have you been, under a rock dear? Your new neighbor is an heir to Company X. Rumor has it, he lost his wife a few years ago and is moving here for a fresh start. He’s quite handsome too according to Deb. Not that you’d be interested with that gorgeous husband of yours, you lucky girl you...] . (edited)

10:31

Poppy scoffed at the comment, how was she lucky? Married for the past nine years, once a happy marriage had become stale and lonely and the useless husband of hers hadn’t touched her in the past year. Every time she had tried to initiate anything he turned her down or claimed he was too busy with work. There was always an excuse. She was growing quite tired and lonely in this marriage. It might have helped if they had had kids of their own, but they had been having fertility issues and had never been able to conceive. It was her fault, of course, Johnathan was fit and healthy and agile, there was no way it could have been him who had the problem. Not that the man would go with her to the clinic to find out what was the problem. A sigh escaped her, she really needed to get off the train of thought she was currently on before she pulled herself back into that dark pit of despair that had been her only constant companion for the last few years. She pulled her Jaguar out of her driveway just as a car pulled in beside the moving truck. She wasn’t curious about the man, not in the slightest she had other things to deal with. .

10:31

It would be hours later, after an annual brunch with her high school friends she still had kept in contact with, that Poppy would return home. The clock on her car dashboard read eleven-fifty a.m. as she parked inside her garage. She noticed the moving truck was nowhere to be seen and the lights were on in the house next door. Poppy was a housewife, and one in a neighborhood that expected a certain level of etiquette one needed to follow. With a sigh she headed inside her house and began to make her famous apple sugar cookies, the recipe had been passed down from her mother and her mother before that… so on and so forth. It was a neighborhood favorite and Poppy couldn’t imagine anyone who would turn down a sugar cookie. With a plate of fresh baked cookies in the shape of apples, coated in red royal icing she made her way out the front door and over to the new neighbor's house. She plastered on the fake smile she was so accustomed to wearing before she rang the doorbell and waited for someone to answer.

With his wife's passing Lewis Stone had moved away from the town in which they had been wed to erase some of the more painful memories that he had to bear. This new community seemed to be open enough. Granted it was more artificial than he was used to, especially considering where he had met his late wife. All things considered this was the best spot for a blank slate. He heard the knock and was not expecting visitors anytime soon, but chalked it up to a welcoming committee of some sort. Quickly he strode over and answered the door and was assailed by the scent of apples. He closed his eyes momentarily and allowed the aroma to surround hmm before gazing upon the woman before him. A curious sight for him to say the least. A single woman for an entire committee? It tickled him pink which gave him a jovial and genuine smile. "Why good afternoon ma'am. I must say I was not expecting such a beautiful greeting on my first day. Bringing such fine scented sweets as these no less. I must say you are quite a welcome unexpected guest!" His voice was low and calm. He gave a polite bow and gazed into her eyes before he continued. "Introductions are in order of course. My name is Lewis Stone, and to who do I owe the pleasure of speaking with?"

"Welcome to the neighborhood Mr. Stone, the pleasure is all mine." Poppy repositioned the plate to balance on one hand and held out the now free one. "I'm your neighbor to the left, the names Poppy Mclaughlin." She'd wait for him to take her hand to shake before lowering her hand and offering up the plate of cookies. "I'm sure others will be by soon to welcome you to the neighborhood but I figured it wouldn't hurt to come on by myself and offer up some sugary treats." Glancing from the plate of cookies to the man in the doorframe she offered another smile. "I know how tiring it is moving, with the unpacking and stress... figured these might do just the trick to give you a decent sized energy boost." She tilted her head. "How are you finding the neighborhood? I know it can be quite intimidating with all these cookie cutter houses..." She was projecting a bit but it had already slipped out of her mouth. Biting her lip she shook her head. "I just mean, if you ever need any help or details with the locals do feel free to reach out."

He let out a soft chuckle and stepped from the doorframe to usher her in. "No need to be so apologetic my dear! Please do come in I would love to have some company." He waved his hand to motion Poppy inside. There were still some boxes still packed, however the home was mostly furnished and ready for it's new tenant. "Do pardon the mess, I wasn't expecting such a beautiful welcome on my first day here." Lewis smiled wide and gathered two glasses. Setting them down he poured out some iced tea and set one of the glasses in front of Poppy. "Relax a spell Miss- Er... Mrs. McLaughlin. Judging by your agitated demeanor I'd say you need someone to lend an ear that with keep quite for once." He took a sip and sighed in content. "Oh, and might I try one of those? They look mighty delicious!"

"Oh, thank you." Poppy offered him a smile and walked through the threshold, taking a breath of air into her lungs as she did so. Her original goal had just been to deliver the cookies but here she was, accepting an offer into her new neighbors home. When she passed him she couldn't help to note the smell of his cologne and natural musk. Poppy tucked some hair behind her ear as he mentioned the mess. "Oh no, it is completely understandable. You've just moved in after all. Surprised so much is done in such a short time." She offered him a small smile and gratefully accepted the glass of tea and sat the plate of cookies down on a table. Lifting the cool glass to her lips she took a small sip. "Oh please do, these are for you after all." She flushed slightly as she stared down at the plate. "Not to toot my own horn, but everyone in the neighborhood would kill for my recipe... But, lady has to keep her secrets, no?" Poppy took a longer drink of the tea before continuing. "I'm sure more of the neighbors will stop by later...they're all a nosey bunch, but I wanted to be the first."

"I appreciate the heads up on that my Dear! Oh -err, I mean Mrs. McLaughlin." Lewis sheepishly picked up one of the sweets and took a bite. An immediate sigh of pleasure escaped his throat as the confectionary let it's flavors dance a joyous waltz on his tongue. "I can see why someone would kill for a recipe like this! It's practically enchanting me to devour the whole batch." He smiled and sipped on some tea before continuing. "Now if you don't mind my being forward Mrs. McLaughlin... I have two questions: First being, may I call you Poppy? Second being, are you okay?" Lewis's expression changed to one of a calm but blank tone. He didn't know why, but felt the need to ask her. Something about the air around her smile and demeanor felt artificial, like hiding her true feelings for the sake of keeping up appearances.

A slight flush spread across her cheeks as Lewis complimented her cookies. "Well, I'll take the recipe with me. I wouldn't be in such demand if I let others in on my secret recipe." The faintest genuine smile formed her lips for a moment. Her eyes dropped to the glass of tea and she had just been about to take a sip when she was taken by surprise at him asking not only if he could call her by her given name, but he had apparently seen past her façade and she wasn't quite sure what had given her away. Most people either politely ignored it or genuinely were not aware at just how miserable her life had become... Yet this complete strange had seen past her painted smile and mask she had worked so hard at crafting. Poppy lowered the glass, the small smile she had been wearing dropped, her eyes stared into the contents of the beverage in her hand and she had to take a moment to gather her thoughts. "Mr. Stone...erm; I mean if you allow me to call you Lewis then I suppose I won't mind you calling me Poppy." She removed her left hand from the glass of tea and moved to tuck a strand of her hair behind her ear. "As for your other question... I suppose the answer I am used to giving is that I am fine. But if I were to be honest with myself Lewis, I would say that I am far from fine. My life continues to move forward day to day and yet I feel as if I am being suffocated." It surprised Poppy at how easily the truth slipped through her ruby red lips, as if his one question and the sincerity in his eyes had been the rock that had chipped at her mask, the dam breaking and what came forth were her true feelings. "I-" She cleared her throat and flushed, taking a sip of the tea as her voice cracked. "Excuse me, I shouldn't burden you with my problems..."

Lewis stood up and smiled at her. "Well Poppy... The way I see it, you just need a shoulder to lean on. Someone who is neutral that you can confide in. It's only a burden if you let it be, and I won't force you to agree off the bat. It's only an offer for now." He sighed and took a sip of his tea, thinking over what to say. It already seemed like he had over stepped his bounds by saying this much, but on the same token it felt like there was something else he could do. "Poppy... Not to seem forward but, I want to give you a hug. I don't know why but it seems like you could use one." Lewis held out his hand and gave a small smile to her. There wasn't much else he could do. To see someone suffering in silence made his heart ache every time. He needed to help her somehow, in any small way possible.

She wasn't sure how to take his words, there was truth in them indeed but to openly state them and let them linger in the air between them left Poppy feeling confused. With Lewis being a stranger there was a comfort in opening up about things she simply couldn't to her friends and family alike. It gave a hint of a promise that she would, or once in her life, have someone on her side instead of looking at her life and nitpicking everything that would be deemed her fault. As Lewis stood there with his hand outstretched Poppy found her own hand reaching out taking it. His hand was warm, his hands felt like that of a man who knew how to work for a living, one that held stories of things of a different nature than perhaps her own husband could understand. It was a hand that radiated it's warmth and support and as she used that same hand to help stand up, she couldn't help but break down in that moment as she moved within his arms. The silent sobs leaving her open and raw, the dam had cracked and Poppy wasn't sure if she could stop. It felt good to be in the arms of a man, it had been...too long since her husband so much as looked at her, let alone touch her in any form of intimacy and Poppy shook as she remained in that spot, her red tipped heels caught the teardrops as the fell to the floor. A soft plip plip broke the silence of the room. Guilt was another emotion that coursed through her as she found it hard for herself to pull away from the hug. She knew that even a moment longer and it would begin to be improper. She was a married woman for heavens sake. She should pull away and return home and yet...

Lewis felt her shuddering and gripped her tighter. "It's okay Poppy... Just let it out..." He kept whispering sweet nothings to her. Lewis knew nothing of this woman, but he knew that her mask was breaking who she really was. The hug would last for as long as she needed it. His hand slowly ran comfortingly up and down Poppy's back. The tears that struck her shoes caused Lewis to start and reminisce of the times he had done this for his family. The silence between the two was uninterrupted for a long while before He stood back, holding Poppy by her elbows in gentle manner. "Poppy... I know its probably awkward for you to do this, but feel free to come over whenever you please. I'd welcome you anytime and no matter what I will lend you an ear." Lewis smiled and looked her square in the eye. His emerald gaze was steady and locked in closely. The eyes are the windows to the soul, and Poppy's was screaming for a friend. "Think of it as repayment for the cookies if you need to."

It was cathartic as Poppy stood there crying in the arms of her new neighbor. His hand rubbing against her back seemingly anchoring her in place even more than the comforting words in which he had offered. She remained there letting the tears freely flow until Lewis had stepped back and held her at an arms length. Poppy would look up until his eyes then, her make-up probably ruined and she could only imagine the hot mess that she looked like in this very moment as he offered her to come over when she needed it. "T-thank you, Lewis...That is... very kind of you." She wiped at her tear steaked face and inhaled a deep yet shaky breath as she slowly began to put back on the mask she had come to live with. "Mind if I use the restroom to freshen up before I return home?" Poppy laughed nervously and glanced towards the window. "Can't leave here looking like a wreck, you'd never hear the end of it and I'm sure the main welcoming party will be here soon. Once the gossip mill catches wind of something they don't let it go for quite awhile..." After she would reemerge from the bathroom her face would be cleaned and proper though she had opted to wash the remaining of her makeup from her face. Despite her puffy eyes she was still a stunning visage as she met Lewis by the door. "I will remember your offer, and if you ever have a hankering for a full home cooked meal feel free to come by and join us for dinner..." Poppy gave his arm a reassuring squeeze. "There's no rush in returning the plate, I hope you enjoy the rest of those cookies Lewis." She gave him a small genuine smile before letting her arm fall to her side.

Lewis bowed his head and cleared away the tea glasses. When Poppy had returned from freshening up, he had taken a moment to see her in a natural state. Before him was a truly beautiful woman, and almost immediately Lewis cursed himself. He felt his cheeks begin to flush and heart race. It took sheer will for him to grasp reality once more and respond. "Y-yeah... I will have to take you up on your offer sometime. Oh, and thank you for the cookies Poppy!" It was truly a curious concept for him. He had lost his wife and now before him stood a married woman that needed someone to rely on. A job meant for a husband, but judging by the way she bared her problems, seems her hubby is absent most of the time. The concept behind this tickled the romanticism in his heart. Two wounded hearts helping each other heal, or something to that effect. Slowly he reached for a small business card and gave it to Poppy. "I figure you may be needing that. After all if the gossip sharks are as bad as you said, then this'll give you a good excuse for the length of your visit." Lewis smiled almost apologetically to her. He couldn't care about what the neighborhood thought of him, but in Poppy's case it would most likely be akin to social execution. He escorted her to the front door and with a glance noticed the buzz of activity from other homes. Seems Poppy's warning of the rest of the welcoming committee dropping by was accurate. "Well I'll be getting the rest of my things sorted. Please take care Poppy." Lewis smiled wide with a toothy visage and waved a farewell as she passed by.

Poppy would accept the business card and offered him a kind smile. "Thank you Lewis." She held card in her hand as she moved down the sidewalk. Her eyes downcast as she headed back towards her own cookie cutter house. She passed the head of the neighborhood committee Deb as well as the head gossip Ruth and she offered them a wave. "Oh my, Poppy beating us to the punch today it seems. Mrs. Mclaughlin, glad to see you involved in welcoming the new member to the cul-de-sac." "You know me Deb, just doing my part and offering some of my cookies." She forced a smile and nodded. "Now excuse me, my husband will be home in a few hours so I should really go and get dinner started." She didn't wait for a reply, instead she continued on her path. She did however hear part of Ruth's words as they parted ways. "I told you...look at her the poor dear. They must have had another fight." Once inside her house she leaned against the shut door and closed her eyes. What was she doing with her life? How did one continue this sort of torture? Sighing she shoved off the door and headed towards the kitchen where she had left her cellphone. Poppy checked the messages and frowned. Poppy, working late. No need for dinner. She laughed though it came out as a partial sob as the tears threatened again. "Of course. Dinner for one." Poppy moved over to the fridge and grabbed a bottle of wine and then one wine glass before heading to the back patio.

Lewis made quick work of the remaining boxes and their contents. All that was left to do was to organize and decorate his new abode. A job for tomorrow if not later. He grabbed another cookie and after taking a delicious bite started to wonder what he should do for dinner. No food in the fridge to speak of, save for some eggs and milk. Takeout or pizza came to mind, but he'd rather avoid it. With a sigh he just wander out to his backyard to try and decide. After some time his eyes wandered and fell upon a familiar sight. Poppy sitting on her back porch, with what appears to be a bottle of wine. "Poor dear..." Was the only thing he could say before his doorbell rang. "Welcome to the neighborhood!", was the collective cry of the gaggle of women and a handful of men. Lewis was taken aback by the turnout but smiled. The one that called herself Deb was apparently the default leader of the group and gave a brief speech before offering her house warming gift. Lewis ushered the group in and thanked each one for their gift and handed them his card. After about fifteen minutes the gaggle soon started to head out with fond farewells and the sort. However Lewis asked Deb for a moment alone. "I need to ask you a favor Ms. Debora... would you by chance have Mrs. McLaughlin's phone number? She asked me to return her platter when I had finished the cookies, but never gave me an address to head to." Lewis smiled and gave a polite chuckle. Deb had reciprocated the laugh and, with an almost at the ready quickness, presented the number and address of Poppy much to his joy. With Deb and the rest of the committee out he quickly rang up Poppy on her phone. Hopefully it's not too intrusive...

She was well into her second glass of wine when the gaggle of neighbors had headed out from Lewis's house. Poppy herself could hear their voices carrying over the wind as they went. Their excitement and satisfaction of the new neighbor could be clearly told. She thought back to their exchange, the way his arms had felt around her as she wept. Even now she could feel the faint whispers of the warmth it had provided as she sat there alone just staring out at the small ripples the wind made on the pools surface. Her thoughts had already been in a dark place, one of hurt and an ache that by this point Poppy wondered if she would ever feel something more than. The wine well into her system had her mind playing with thoughts that should be forbidden, even if she was unhappily married there were some lines she as a wife shouldn't cross. Yet her mind continued down that path of thought, her eyes turning to glance at the house next door. Did Lewis perhaps have a means to eat dinner? His house had been mountains of boxes and she was sure unpacking was a taxing endeavor. Perhaps she could- Poppy was pulled from her thoughts with the sound of her phones ringtone. Was it Johnathan calling to tell her he had been wrong? Her mother As she looked at the screen she was met with disappointment at the unknown number that flashed across the screen. Sighing she hit the accept call button and moved it to her ear. "He-" She cleared her throat, the muscles protesting as she fought off the tears she'd been holding on to. "Hello?"

"Hey there! This is Poppy right?" Lewis kept his tone polite but allowed a measure of joy to be heard as he spoke. As expected he heard Poppy scramble in surprise at his voice. He waited for her to calm down before he continues. "Deb gave me your number. I forgot to ask what house you live in to return the platter. Also if you know any good places to get something to eat. I haven't done any grocery shopping yet so options are kind of sparse here." He said it with a chuckle and paused in anticipation for Poppy's response. What he heard made his heart leap a bit. "Well... Why don't I cook you and I some dinner?" He felt his cheeks flush a bit and agreed. After agreeing on the time to head over, he quickly located some Tupperware to store the rest of the cookies, quickly cleaned the tray. He couldn't keep a smile off his face for long, solely because he was going to have a meal made by hand once again. He was no slouch at cooking, but compared to most others it was always bland to say the least. The time soon came and he knocked on the front door, tray in hand.

After the phone call ended the disappointment Poppy had felt was already replaced with the excitement. A slight pep in her step as she took both her glass and the wine bottle into the kitchen to begin prepping for the upcoming meal. The large open kitchen was one of her favorite places inside the house, with it's large kitchen island that had a marble countertop, to the dual oven stove that she had insisted she needed, with it's sleek stovetop that made cleaning all the more easier. Poppy sat the wineglass and bottle down on the island and headed to the refrigerator. The fridge was packed to the brim with all things one could need to cook a decent meal, options galore she had to think about what kind of meal she could offer... There were still some left over chopped apples that she needed to use lest they went bad. An idea began to formulate in her mind. She grabbed some sausage, onion, parmesan cheese, garlic. white wine and everything else she would need to flavor the dish she had settled on. She turned on her Bluetooth speaker, soft music playing in the background. Poppy danced and sang as she cooked, the prospect of sharing a meal with Lewis had raised her spirits. If the trend of her husband would continue he wouldn't be home until well into the night, just before night would become dawn. She was tired of being left alone, to sit on a shelf and collect dust. She had just begun to set the table when she had heard the knock on the door. With perhaps a little too much excitement she flittered to the door and swung it open. .

03:05

Her once perfectly placed hair was a little disheveled, a little bit of flour on the tip of her nose as she swung the door open. A smile spread across her lips as her eyes met with Lewis's. "Good evening Lewis, please come in... I was just finishing setting up the table." The savory sweet smell of italian sausage and apples wafted around them as she ushered him inside. "I hope you like pasta, have you ever had homemade?" She led him into the dining room where true to her words the table was only partially set up. "I made my own...I know that's a little ambitious but I thought, well, this was a celebratory event."

Lewis chuckled and gave her a brief hug. "It smells amazing Poppy!" He set the tray down and took in a deep breath. Her cooking was a true symphony to smell, which only enticed Lewis's appetite further. With a mischievous grin he turns to Poppy and lowers his head until he was eye level with her, and only a few inches away from her face. In a low and sweet voice he teasingly said, "How'd you know Italian is my favorite style of cooking?... Are you trying to seduce me?~" He held her gaze and smirked. After but a few seconds he couldn't hold back his laughter and stood up. His smile showed his teeth and was accented by the jovial laughter. "I-I'm sorry! I always have a tendency to tease people. Nasty habit from my days in college." He straightened his clothing and looked at Poppy with his signature rosy grin. "Still need help setting up?"

A rosy hue spread across Poppy's face as Lewis moved closer, his question about possible suggestion more on the nose than probably either of them were aware. For a second her breath caught and as they stared at each other Poppy forgot out to speak... That was, until Lewis laughed and the spell of the moment had been broken though it only made her flush an even deeper shade of red. Her red hair and pale skin accentuated the flush in her cheeks and she tried let out a laugh though it came out more as a squeak. "I-" She cleared her throat and straightened out her apron before reaching behind her neck to undo the knot that held it on. "I am glad it's your favorite, I hope it can live up to your standards." She turned and headed through the kitchen doorframe. "I would love the help, all that's left is the silverware, in that drawer there." She indicated the one by the sink and smiled at him as she grabbed the dish that held the pasta and carried it to the table. "Do you like wine with meals, or would you prefer something more like a beer?"

"No need to fret over the drinks Poppy. I trust in you judgement for that." Lewis smiled wide and started to set the silverware for the meal. The image of Poppy's flushed features made his heart jump a bit and soon caused his own cheeks to blush brightly. He didn't know why, but just seeing her like that felt like a moment that only he could have. After Poppy returned with the drinks and food Lewis pulled out her chair and lent her a hand to take a seat. After all, a gentleman knows a woman can do it herself, but to always bear the menial tasks. After she was seated comfortably he took his own spot across from her and gave a quick prayer for the meal.

Feeling like this was some sort of celebration she went ahead and grabbed the wine glasses, her eyes falling to the one in her sink that she'd been previously using. One more glass of wine shouldn't affect her much and it would be rude not to join him in drinking while they ate their meal, at least in her mind. Setting the glasses down with each plate she glanced at Lewis as he finished placing the silverware. "I chose a red wine, I hope that's alright. If at any time you'd like something else please feel free to ask." Placing the pan of pasta in the center of the table she took her preferred seat, a small shy smile on her face as she looked across the table at him. She closed her eyes when he began to pray and sent up a silent prayer herself. Thanking the powers that be for more than just the food in front of her, as she picked up her fork she paused before she swirled some of the noodles on her fork. "How did you find the rest of the neighborhood welcoming party? I couldn't help but hear them as they were leaving... Hopefully Deb didn't wrangle you into anything after having just moved in. She can be quite notorious for pressuring everyone into the fundraisers they do around here..." Poppy needed to keep the conversation on a safe route, away from the thoughts that had stirred in her mind since he had joked about her seducing him. Could she blame the thoughts that his words had elicited? No, should she even think of acting on them? No...yet it didn't stop the thoughts from manifesting inside her mind. She lifted a bite of noodles to her mouth, clamping down on the delicious apple and pasta. As she chewed she would watch to see if Lewis found the dish to his liking.

Lewis took a sip of the wine and gave a delighted sigh before he had a mouthful of the pasta. Every flavor was complimented by each other and elevated the meal to that of comfort only found in the company of others. He turned his attention to Poppy. It was obvious that she had actually let her hair down and went all out for the meal. This alone made Lewis blush with joy. "The wine is perfect Poppy!" "The rest of the welcoming committee was cheerful, but seemed way too rehearsed..." He allowed himself a small chuckle at the memory of the gaggle of women that welcomed him into the community. "As far as Deb is concerned, she hasn't tried anything as of yet. I'll be sure to keep my ears peeled for her though." Another mouthful of pasta and Lewis could not help but to smile. He looked directly at Poppy and with a genuine tone, "The food is remarkable Poppy! I'm quite jealous that I can't have your cooking everyday!" In the back of his mind he realized that what he had just said was a bit forward. Too late to take it back now however. Perhaps he can invest more time with her and see if he can have her be a confidant.

A small genuine smile was on Poppy's face as a flush spread over her cheeks. She was glad she had chosen the wine instead of beer to offer with the dinner. She knew Italian meals normally went well when paired with a wine. She lifted her own glass, taking a long sip of it and letting the velveting drink spread over her tongue before swallowing and letting it make it's way to her stomach. Her head was already swimming in the clouds from the amount she had consumed prior to him arriving. Nothing would come of it she was sure, but she couldn't help but feel the butterflies in her gut as his compliment left his lips. Poppy swallowed the knot in her throat, taking a rather large drink from her wineglass. Her cheeks growing even hotter as she sat it down to stare at the man across from her. "That is high praise, thank you Lewis..." Her finger nervously traced the rim of her glass before she moved to continue working on the pasta in front of her. "I'm here all day, every day... when I'm not volunteering my time. I don't work..." She admitted, her lips turning down slightly at the admission. Her eyes focused on the noodles, twirling them on her fork absentmindedly. "If you ever need a home cooked meal... I'd be honored to provide, I'm mostly alone these days and food is always better when there's someone else to enjoy it with." She stilled her hand, the noodles around her fork falling back down to the plate. She knew she should probably not offer such a thing, but she couldn't help it. How long had it been since she had felt this much warmth? He genuinely enjoyed her food, and though they just met he seemed to enjoy her company just as much... or perhaps she was reading to much into things. Poppy quietly cleared her throat and brought the next bite of pasta to her mouth and focused on chewing it, trying to calm herself down despite the alcohol wanting otherwise as it coursed through her body. Hopefully the food would help her come back down.

Lewis paused chewing and gazed at Poppy once the words she spoke sunk in. The melancholy tone paired with her offer sounded to him like she needed someone around to chat with and to in general just exist with. The desire for companionship in her actions and words made it apparent that she craved to be close to someone, anyone at this point. With a gulp, Lewis took a breath and smiled softly.

"Well if that is the case... Might I enlist your service then Poppy?" Lewis took a sip of his wine. He could see that she was hurting, and this seemed the only path to take for the time being. "I enjoy your cooking and your company. It is quite refreshing to say the least, but more so that I find you to be stunningly adept at many things." Lewis stood from his spot and walked over to Poppy, holding out his hand. "If I may be so bold... Would you like to 'work' for me? Of course it's only in title alone. In all actuality You'd just come to my home and we can discuss whatever you desire and simply enjoy each other." Lewis kept his gaze firmly to Poppy's eyes. He wanted to give her something to find joy in. Her eyes told him many things, above all, they told him that she needed an excuse to interact with someone without needing a mask.

She held her breath when he asked if she might enlist her services. His words echoing in her mind as she worked at swallowing the bite she had just taken. It took more work than it should have and Poppy moved to pick up her wine glass, taking a long drink. The buzz in her mind added with the continuation of his thought had her flushing quite profusely. As Lewis stood Poppy couldn't help but let her eyes follow his movements as he walked around the table to where she sat. Her bright eyes drifted from his handsome face to that of his hand as it outstretched to her. She sat her wine glass down and turned the rest of her body to face towards him. '...Would you like to work for me' Just that one part stuck out to her and she couldn't help the small noise that eked out of her throat. Even with the sip of the wine she just had her throat was dry, but even so she found that her well manicured hand was already reaching up and was placed into Lewis's. Enjoy each other? What exactly did he mean by that, and why did the sound of those words leaving his lips have heat gathering in the center of her gut as she rose from her chair so that she wasn't in such a...position. While their height difference was still quite obvious at least this way she was more on equal ground than if she had remained seating. Clearing her throat Poppy squeezed his hand, her head giving a small shy nod. "That...I think." She closed her mouth and tried to focus her swirling thoughts. "I would like that, the, erm, cover would do nicely to keep wagging tongues from." Though she knew it wouldn't stop them completely it would be enough... Wouldn't it? Poppy found herself holding his gaze, her hand still placed in his as she realized even if it wouldn't be enough that she was at a point that she no longer cared. "Yes, let's...do that. Though, I am sure we would need to figure out the details to make it look...legitimate."

"Indeed we should. However for now, let us just enjoy the time we have for the remainder of the evening before we must part ways." Lewis smiled and pulled her into a tight hug. He noticed her flushed expression, but decided against pointing it out to her. Considering she was most likely working up a substantial amount of nerve to agree, let alone even consider the offer made him bite his tongue for the time being. He released Poppy from the hug and allowed her to take her seat once more. The meal was only halfway finished, and he really would like to finish the truly divine meal before him. As Lewis sat back down an idea formed in his head. He took a few bites of his meal, and washed it down with the wine before he presented it to Poppy, "...We could just say the reason for you coming over is that you are acting as my temporary maid..." The validity of it was there, but she had to be onboard in order for it to really gain any traction, or consideration for that matter.

"I-" Poppy took a breath and chewed lightly on her bottom lip as he gave her a smile and pulled her into a hug. His cologne filled her senses as his arms wrapped around her and she inhaled deeply holding it in for a long moment as she let herself enjoy the feel of his arms around her. The feeling was one that she had craved, the affection and warmth if offered soothed a part of her that had been left wanting for such a long time that she felt a knot form inside her throat and she had to bite her tongue to keep from weeping again. They still needed to finish their meal and she didn't want to cry all over him for a second time and possibly scare him off. Once Lewis released her Poppy took her seat once again, finally releasing the breath she had held in. The color was still on her cheeks but she felt calmer now as Lewis took his own seat. As he mentioned her acting as his temporary maid the alcohol she had been consuming got the best of her and she spoke before she really thought about it. The words slipping out with such ease she should have worried about it but didn't. "Does it come with one of those cute uniforms?" Her auburn eyebrow arched suggestively as a sultry smile spread across her lips. Her hand moved to pick up her wine glass and she took a long drink before she sat it back down and leaned her elbow onto the table and placed her chin on her palm. "Perhaps I'd have to call you master, or would Sir suit you better?" Her tongue traced the fullness of her bottom lip before she sat back in her chair, her attention slowly leaving her dinner guest to once again resume eating the pasta in front of her. @Takkar Drakon

Lewis choked on his drink for a second. The brazen way that Poppy broached the subject caught him completely off guard. He took a moment to clear his throat and smiled softly. He locked his gaze directly to Poppy and remained silent for a time. His smile melted into a smirk as he pondered her question. By now he realized she most likely had more than just the wine that was selected for dinner. He leaned forward, folding his fingers into a cradle for his chin. "Well... I won't stop you from calling me either. However, you seem like you desire to draw more than idle chatter from our agreement... If I was a betting man, I'd say you desire my company in more than a platonic fashion." Such an opportunity to tease her was in all honesty too much to pass up. It wasn't going to happen often that she'd be this drunk and vulnerable. He was going to take full advantage to make her flustered. Lewis' brow was cocked in a suggestive tone, much like Poppy had done. His food was for the most part finished. All that remained was to chat with her until such time that either he excused himself, or when Poppy bid him farewell. "I must admit though my Dear Poppy... To see you in a maid uniform would be quite an experience, if you'll pardon my being forward." His smile became more devilish as he awaited her response.

The flush in Poppy's cheeks deepened when Lewis told her he wouldn't stop her form calling him either. She had already crossed a line but in the moment she couldn't care less. There was a glint in his eye as he spoke and Poppy found herself holding her breath again. Her heartbeat was so loud in her ear that she wasn't sure if it would be safe continuing down this train of the conversation yet at the same time she couldn't find it in herself to completely derail it. If anything the look on his face only seemed to encourage such behavior from her. "Well...are you...a betting man, Lewis?" Poppy set her fork down, the meal essentially done and she pushed the plate to the side with her free hand while her chin still rested on her palm. Her pointer finger lightly tapping against her blush colored cheeks as she stared at him across the table. When his brow rose her bottom lip went between her teeth before breaking into a small mischievous smile. 'To see you in a maid uniform would be quite an experience' "I..." Her cheeks flushed even further crimson at the image that popped into her mind. Johnathan, her husband had never really wanted something like that. Always keeping things to the bare minimum of interactions with her, as if it was more of a chore than a delight. At the sour thoughts Poppy mentally shoved them away, her lashes lowering as her bright eyes bore into Lewis's darker ones. "I could be convinced to pardon such forwardness if you would elaborate on just what kind of experience it would be for you..." @Takkar Drakon

"It would be something akin to a fun experiment my dear.~" He cupped her chin in his fingers and stared directly into her eyes. His signature devilish smile crept along his features as he held her gaze. Slowly he came closer to her until his lips were about two inches away from Poppy's. Lewis spoke in a deep and soothing tone, "I find teasing you to be quite the delightful experience. Almost like a drug that is so tempting to use.~" He pulled away from her, but took her hands in his own and softened his smile. "I know you don't want to be alone every night. No matter your decision I will not force you to sway one way or the other."

He was temptation made flesh, everything she craved and had been lacking in the last two years of her marriage. The offer he stated was very tempting and perhaps if she hadn't been inebriated she might have declined but in truth she felt like she would have accepted it regardless and it had been his touch that made her realize this. As his hand cupped her chin and his fingers tilted her head to look up at him she felt it deep down that she wanted more from this man. His devilish smirk just about did her in and Poppy inhaled a deep breath but that seemed to only have her even more intoxicated by this man before her. Already she was weak in the knees and they hadn't done anything...yet. Lewis was so close that she could feel his breath caressing her face as he spoke. Her cheeks remained that dark shade of crimson and her lashes lowered as her eyes flicked down to look at his lips. It was so tempting, just a slight push forward and she could kiss him, taste the wine and food on his lips and tongue that she had prepared for him... Poppy had to catch herself from whimpering as he pulled away, her body naturally trying to follow him as he did. His smirk turned into a soft smile and she shyly looked away. His words hit truth as he spoke and her heart skipped a beat. Should she? She still had a chance to decline, to tell Lewis that it was wrong and that she would be faithful. But had her husband been? Poppy had suspicions, almost had the evidence in her hands if she just looked hard enough. "I don't think it would take much...persuasion Lewis." Her words came out breathless and on a whisper as she chanced to glance at him again. @Takkar Drakon

Lewis smiled when Poppy glanced at him, and be it because of the heat of the moment or the wine he had been sipping on, he kisses her cheek. Her sweet scented perfume tickled his nose and her flushed cheeks radiated a delightful heat. His eyes met hers and it took a moment for him to realize what he had done. He quickly reeled back and his demeanor rapidly shifted to a more flustered version of his usual calm self. "O-Oh God... I- I am so sorry Poppy! I took that joke way too far!" Lewis exhaled in panic and slowly started to scan his environment. His thoughts never staying for more than a minute at a time as he kept pacing, trying to figure out what he was to do. He was certain Poppy was going to be absolutely furious with him, and as the old verbiage goes, 'Hell hath no fury like that of a woman scorned.'

The kiss on her cheek had been brief, but the heat that radiated and traveled from the flush of her face down to her core had been deliciously slow. She bit her lip and tried her best to enjoy the moment but then Lewis's words cut through the rejoice she'd had that her body still held desire, the need to be touched. Her full lips turned down in a frown. "Ah... a joke." She couldn't help that her words sounded as if she was hurt. She had been even if she shouldn't have. Clasping her hands together she looked away from his pacing form. "Right. Well, I think that... concludes this evening." Poppy turned to avoid looking him in the eyes. Of course she had been silly to even think he was interested in such a thing from her. With a slight inhale of breath she began to stack up the used dishes neatly. Her hands shook softly as she placed the plates together and then the cutlery. All the dishes stacked she picked them up and took them into the large ranch style sink. Placing them in one and letting the water run on them for just a moment. Her left hand moved to grip the counter as she wiped at her eyes. "I- I suppose I should see you off." Her words shook just as her hands did. So starved for attention she'd been a fool. @Takkar Drakon

Lewis calmed himself, taking a deep breath and loosened his collar. He saw Poppy shaking as if in fear, or rather shaking from frustration. It now dawned on him just how starved of affection she was, and that truth broke his heart. This moment he had to make a choice: Leave Poppy how she is and try and patch things other in the morning, or take a gamble. "Poppy..." Was all he could say as he moved closer to her. Lewis wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her in tightly. He rested his chin on her shoulder before he continued. "...Don't hate me for this." After a quick glance out the window to be sure no one was snooping around, Lewis turned Poppy's head to face his visage. Her eyes glistened with tears that she was struggling to hold back, which he wiped away with a tender swipe of his thumb. He caressed her cheek briefly before kissing Poppy's quivering lips. His breath hitched as he tasted her apple flavored kiss. Such a sweet sensation was overwhelming, but at the same time he didn't want it to end. After what felt like an eternity he pulled away slightly until he was mere inches away from Poppy's face. He Stared deeply into her eyes and said, "If you want this... Don't be afraid to say it. I may joke and tease, but if you genuinely want something more I will respond in kind."

She'd heard her name on his lips though she did not turn around. The tears that threatened in the corner of her eyes had remained and she was thankful that they hadn't yet slipped. Shaking her head Poppy reached over to turn off the running water only to freeze as she felt him come up behind her, his chin resting on her shoulder. She could feel the heat radiate from him and Poppy had to close her eyes lest she do or say something she might come to regret. His words however had her perplexed, her eyes opening just as his hand moved to direct her face towards his direction. A tear escaped then as their faces were so close. Her heart became lodged in her throat as his thumb wiped away the rogue tear and his lips came forward. A soft groan escaped her as she returned his kiss, her hand fell away from the sink faucet. He tasted like the meal they'd just shared but there was something extra that told Poppy that he was more than and she melted against him. Her whole body came alive during their kiss, her lips parting and offering up a part of her self that she had long been parted from. The kiss was intoxicating and it was over all too quickly as he pulled away, his eyes searching hers. Biting her bottom lip as his words caressed her like a silent promise. Poppy knew she should decline, to tell him that she couldn't, she was married for heavens sake yet the words that slipped from her plump lips were her true desire. Out before she could even contemplate what sort of consequences would come from such a simple yet complex response. "I want it." Her eyes broke the contact they had shared only for them to fall on his lips as she turned around and pressed her rear against the kitchen sink. Her hands moving to wrap around his neck as she stood on her tiptoes to once again find that connection she'd felt just moments before, the spark of desire that had formed the moment Lewis has originally offered her a hug. @Takkar Drakon

Lewis reconnected the kiss and held Poppy tightly. He knew this was wrong. He KNEW what this could entail should anyone discover it, but he wanted it regardless. Soon enough he pressed against Poppy, feeling her soft body in his hands. Slowly, Lewis placed a leg between Poppy's and gently pinned her in place. He smiled softly and kissed her with more passion. Each moan and whimper that managed to escape her lips fed a hunger deep inside of him. One that Lewis was more than happy to feed. "My sweet little Poppy... I- I want to taste more of you." Lewis leaned in and kissed her lips one more time, before he began trailing kisses on her neck. Her perfume was a delightful incentive for him to continue teasing Poppy's baser desire to come forth. A single thought crossed Lewis's mind at that moment: "How would a woman so starved for affection react to such stimulation?" @EnchantedNymph

She wasn't thinking of what she should or shouldn't be doing, not in this moment as Lewis reconnected their lips. Poppy practically melted against him as he pressed into her, the countertop digging into her hip as he pressed his leg between her thighs. His hands began to explore her body and let out a soft whimper in between kisses. Lewis was feeding a part of her that hadn't been touched in ages and that one spark. She was pinned against the sink counter but there was nowhere else she would rather be in this moment. The heat of her core seemed to heighten between her legs as she felt his knee pressed against her. His words were deep and passionate as he professed wanting more of her and Poppy knew in that moment as he leaned in to claim her mouth once again that she would give him whatever wish he desired. His lips trailed from her lips to her neck, he'd found one of her most sensitive zones and Poppy's hands gripped the counter even tighter, her knuckles pure white as her hips pressed forward into his leg. He has requested to taste more... and more she wanted to give. "Would... you be interested in dessert, Lewis?" Her held tilted slightly back, granting him more access should he want more of her. @Takkar Drakon

Lewis's lips curled into a devious smile. He kissed Poppy once more and gently whispered into her ear, "My sweetest Poppy, I would love to taste your so called 'dessert' very thoroughly." He slowly began to undress her, groping Poppy's tender flesh to bring out each delicious moan. As her torso finally was exposed Lewis gently nibbled at her breasts. The sheer heat radiating from her was intoxicating, making him even more ravenous to her. He was not sure how much time he had, however he wanted to enjoy each rapturous second. @EnchantedNymph

Drunk on the wine and his attentions Poppy couldn't help but nearly swoon as he gave her a devil's charmed smile. His lips by her ear sent a shiver down her spine and for a moment she held her breath, her hands still gripped the counter as if it were an anchor, her legs so weak that she was thankful for its support. He was the devious with his that tongue of his in more ways than one. The vibrations that his deep voice gave traveled from the sensitive hairs in her ears, down her spine and into the depths of her core. Poppy's lips parted in a light gasp as her top had been undone, the feel of the cool air against her breasts causing small goosebumps to dance across her skin. Lewis kneaded, kissed and claimed her skin until his lips claimed her breast. Little shocks of pleasure shot through her, her hips practically riding his knee. His tongue was a match, and her body the kindling as he flicked his tongue over her hardened peak. It was this moment that Poppy grew bold, her hands finally letting go of the counter top. Wants, no *needing& to feel Lewis. Shaking hands that throbbed moved to his shoulders, her left skating up his neck into the nape of his hair. Red nails raked along his scalp until she grabbed a fist full. She pressed his face even more into her breasts. A soft whimpering moan escaping her. Her once perfect bun now had tendrils of hair cascading down her shoulders. She was a wanton mess, a picture of desire as she let herself be devoured. @Takkar Drakon