Read the books

“Read the books, Angel.” I tell her with a paternal smile, “We both know these worlds are closer to the role-play scenarios you spelled out for me earlier,” her doe-eyes brighten when she realizes she's going to get a reprieve if she needs it, “we'll talk again before Saturday. You don't have to go through with this if you don't want to.”

“Wow, Mr. P ...” once again her fingers brush the cover of the books, “... I didn't even know there were books like this that people could buy.”

“That's what I love about you, Honey,” I brush her cheek softly before climbing off the bed. “There is so much I have to teach you.” Before she can answer I leave her sitting on the bed and close the door carefully behind me as I head downstairs.

The nest morning Alison's eyes are red and her hair is a mess. She takes the cup of coffee I offer gratefully and sips it in silence as I get out her Special K.

“Thanks, Mr. P.” She takes a slow sip and closes her eyes in satisfaction.

“Did you get any sleep at all, Angel?” I ask. I hadn't expected her to read all night long, but that is clearly what she must have done.

“A little, I had to put those books away, but not until almost five.”

“Do you want to talk about it?” Her hand shakes as she pours the milk into her bowl, but her somber smile is genuine, if a little weary looking.

“Not yet, Mr. P!” She looks up carefully, studying me for any reaction. “Is it OK if I take some time to figure some things out first.” It is a surprisingly mature response for someone as naïve as this lovely young coed. In just a couple days she's gone from the Preacher's daughter who never even saw a Harlequin or other bodice-rippers to skimming through three of them and then graduating to some soft-core porn. At this rate she'll be cruising x-rated websites before long.

“Take as much time as you like, Angel.” I put the cereal and milk away as she finishes her bowl. “I shouldn't have ever given you those books.”

“No, Mr. P!” Her protest is vehement and unequivocal. “That's what I like about you, I've been sheltered too long, you treat me like a real woman.” I have to turn away so she doesn't see the self-satisfied grin on my face as I remember just how much of a woman she was.

“Lord-in-Heaven, I'm a mess.” I hear Alison's chair slide back and turn around in time to see her heading back to her rooms with coffee cup in hand. “Thanks for the coffee, Mr. P, you're a lifesaver.” She pauses at the door, “It's going to be a long day. Don't forget I have my afternoon Chem class, but maybe we can talk tonight?” And with a lot more energy than she had just ten minutes ago she heads back up to her rooms.

Ah, to be young again. I remember when I could recover from an all-nighter with a cup of coffee and a cold shower. That was a while ago, but maybe the trip to the Doctor's office this afternoon will help me keep up with my youthful tenant in other ways.