by Douglas Young<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHow much longer before we get there?\u201d Zelma asked from the back seat\u2019s right window.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYes!\u201d Tucker exclaimed with one hand on the wheel and the other hitting the roof of his old car. \u201cThank you, Zelma. I bet Nolana you\u2019d ask within twenty minutes of our leaving, and I just won with five minutes to spare.\u201d Tucker laughed. \u201cIt\u2019s a good thing we\u2019re only going to the lake instead of the coast or it\u2019d be another four hours. Then we\u2019d have to give you sleeping pills or lock you in the trunk.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWell, it feels like it\u2019s been four hours, as slow as you drive.\u201d Zelma smiled as she tapped her cigarette ashes out the window.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Amidst the laughter, a giggling Nolana replied, \u201cWell, my man doesn\u2019t want to get a speeding ticket like someone else\u2019s man I know did.\u201d She leaned into Tucker to give him a kiss.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWell, I wouldn\u2019t have gotten that ticket if someone sitting next to me hadn\u2019t kept shouting how she had to go to the bathroom \u2018and right now,\u2019\u201d Duke got out before Zelma elbowed him.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThat\u2019s right. It was an emergency too,\u201d Zelma declared. \u201cI don\u2019t regret nothing \u2019bout that.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYeah, too bad Officer Friendly didn\u2019t see it that way, huh?\u201d Nolana giggled, looking back at Zelma and Duke.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHey, Zelma.\u201d Tucker grinned at her in the rearview mirror. \u201cYou gonna\u2019 pay Duke\u2019s $250 fine?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHell, no,\u201d she replied with arms folded. \u201cAnd if Duke had a full-sized set of balls, he\u2019d take that uptight cop to court \u2019cause I did<\/em> have to go, we were just two minutes from my parents\u2019 house, and we weren\u2019t even going as fast as Officer Dickwad said we were anyway.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 At a rare lull in the conversation a few minutes later, Ray spoke up from behind the driver\u2019s seat. \u201cTucker, I thought you said Henry Miller was joining us today.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHe was but he just got another new girlfriend,\u201d Tucker answered, smiling. \u201cWhen he called yesterday to bail out on us, he was a-fixing to take her to his parents\u2019 cabin in the mountains for the weekend.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIs this the same new gal you mentioned a few weeks ago?\u201d Nolana looked at her beau.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNo, no. Now you need to get with the program, babe,\u201d Tucker chuckled. \u201cHe left her for the new flavor of the month.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWow. How many girlfriends has he had this year?\u201d Nolana asked.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNot enough, as far as Henry\u2019s concerned,\u201d Duke remarked.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIs he still pursuing a history degree?\u201d Ray asked. \u201cWhat\u2019s his major now?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cGynecology,\u201d Zelma interjected before blowing smoke out the window as everyone guffawed.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ray thoroughly enjoyed all the easy banter. These were his two favorite couples since they seemed to be always joking and having fun. Their almost constant chatter also took the pressure off him. Though he had been friends with each of them since kindergarten, he was still nervous\u00a0 speaking in a group. But the fast-moving conversations and humor more than made up for any discomfort. He was grateful to be included, but so wished he had a girlfriend to bring too.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 This morning Ray was intrigued by Nolana\u2019s cute cousin Celosia seated next to her by the right front window. Like everyone else, she left her college to go home for the weekend and accepted Nolana\u2019s invitation to join them all Saturday for the hour\u2019s drive to the lake beach. Celosia adored her slightly older cousin and jumped at the chance to be with her and Tucker instead of staying home brooding over her latest romantic disappointment. Though she only met the others that morning, she was charmed by their camaraderie and thankful for all the laughs. Somewhat fair-skinned, she had never cared for sunbathing, but knew she needed to get out and socialize.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Celosia was especially curious at the prospect of hopefully exploring the cave in the hills above the lake. She had long been fascinated with caves, having been awed touring the big Ruby Falls cavern in Tennessee\u2019s Lookout Mountain, as well as the small cave in Cave Springs, Georgia. Getting to see another cave, and one with an alleged vampire and no guides, was exciting and a little scary, but Nolana assured her over the phone that there was a good chance they would all explore the cave together. However, Celosia now had her doubts since everyone but the boy by the back left window was wearing a swimsuit.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 When they parked at the lake, the six of them walked the short distance to the beach where several families and couples were swimming and sunbathing. Tucker and Duke went in the water to start tossing a football while Nolana and Zelma kicked off their flip-flops, sat on their blankets, turned on some music, and began applying suntan lotion.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Celosia and Ray stood by awkwardly in long pants and tennis shoes. Neither had brought a bathing suit since each wanted to visit the cave, but they had only just met and were a little uncomfortable checking it out by themselves.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cSo you just gonna\u2019 gawk at us, Ray?\u201d Zelma smiled at him with raised eyebrows as she leaned forward to show more cleavage.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cStop it, Zelma.\u201d Nolana giggled. \u201cTurn around so I can lather your back.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNo,\u201d Ray answered red-faced with his head turned away. \u201cI thought we were all going to the cave. I\u2019ve never been but would really love to see it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cSo who\u2019s stopping you, big boy?\u201d Zelma asked. \u201cWhat, you scared of the big bad vampire?\u201d She giggled. \u201cShoot, you\u2019re way more likely to find a bunch of empty beer cans and used condoms.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cSuch a silly girl,\u201d Nolana noted, lightly slapping her friend\u2019s back and trying not to laugh.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cDon\u2019t worry, Ray,\u201d Zelma added. \u201cI bet Celosia will hold your hand. Maybe y\u2019all can get lost in the cave together.\u201d She winked and chortled.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ray looked at Celosia and was relieved to see her chuckling.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cShall we head up the hill?\u201d he asked her.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cSure,\u201d she replied.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cJust follow the trail to the top of that first hill, y\u2019all,\u201d Nolana instructed as they all waved goodbye.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYay.\u201d Zelma grinned and applauded. \u201cHit a homerun, Ray.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cZelma!\u201d Nolana exclaimed.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHell, I would,\u201d Zelma remarked. \u201cIt\u2019s the only reason you\u2019d ever catch me in some stupid cave.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As Ray and Celosia headed to the trail, he turned to her.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m sorry about what all Zelma said back there.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNo need for you to apologize. She\u2019s just a flirt,\u201d Celosia replied.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWho really enjoys embarrassing me, preferably in front of others, and especially of the opposite sex.\u201d He sighed.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYou think?\u201d Celosia bent over laughing. \u201cI\u2019m sorry. I\u2019m laughing at her, not you. I promise.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNo problem.\u201d He waved his hand. \u201cShe is<\/em> funny. That\u2019s one of the reasons she\u2019s usually<\/em> such swell company. She\u2019s just not nearly as fun when I\u2019m the butt of her humor.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s not a problem, Ray. She\u2019s a character. I just really appreciate you\u2019re wanting to check out this cave since I wouldn\u2019t go alone.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThanks, \u2026 and same here,\u201d he replied.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As the trail reached the top of the first tall hill overlooking the lake, Ray and Celosia looked down at the beach and saw Nolana and Zelma wave. They waved back before facing the cave where a sign warned everyone going inside to be careful, not bring alcohol, and not litter.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 At the entrance was a natural stone wall about ten feel high, ten feet wide, and full of old and recent graffiti. Though the students were all alone, each was quietly comforted that many others had explored the cave for many years.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cGosh, it doesn\u2019t look like it\u2019s lit up,\u201d Celosia noted as she peered inside to the left where the cave began.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAs the Good Book says, \u2018Fear thou not,\u2019\u201d Ray remarked with a smile as he pulled a flashlight out of his pocket. \u201cAnd, though it\u2019s small, it packs a powerful light.\u201d He turned it on and aimed it in the dark to prove his point.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYay,\u201d a relieved Celosia exclaimed. \u201cSo prepared. You must have been a Boy Scout.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNah, but I was a Cub Scout.\u201d He chuckled.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAnd I was a Girl Scout,\u201d she added.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 They smiled at each other and entered the cave. Like at the opening, for the first ten feet or so inside, the limestone walls were decorated with graffiti. The path was about six feet wide but it occasionally narrowed. The uneven ceiling looked to be a couple dozen feet tall, but sometimes much less. Walking slowly, they examined the walls on either side, the dirt floor, and the ceiling, with Ray careful to have his flashlight illuminate everything before them.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Several empty beer cans and bottles were strewn along the floor, as well as bottles of liquor and wine.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cApparently this cave\u2019s vampire substitutes booze for blood,\u201d Ray observed, prompting Celosia to chuckle.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 While stopping to admire the many stalactites hanging from the ceiling, they realized they could no longer hear any shouts or music from the beach below, and the temperature had gotten much cooler. But only Ray wore a long-sleeved shirt and jacket. Seeing Celosia grip her arms, he offered his jacket.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOh, no thanks. I\u2019ll be all right,\u201d she declared. \u201cIt\u2019s my own fault. I should have known it\u2019d be cooler in here.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cTake it,\u201d he insisted. \u201cI\u2019ve got long sleeves and I\u2019m hot-natured anyway. My mother made me bring it. Seriously, take it, Celosia. You\u2019re practically shivering, and I feel fine,\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 She thanked him and let him help her slip into it. Celosia tried to recall if any guys she had dated had ever done such. Though thrilled to be in only her third cave, she found herself ruminating over how much more considerate this new acquaintance was than her last boyfriend, or maybe any guy with whom she had gone out. Nolana\u2019s right. I really have chosen a bunch of losers<\/em>, she reflected. Hey, could she have really invited me today to meet this guy? Is that why no one else joined us and Zelma made all the flirty comments? Hmmm. Well \u2026 no complaints<\/em>.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ray increasingly thought about the attractive young lady on his left. Ever since everyone met at Nolana\u2019s parents\u2019 house that morning and she introduced them, Celosia had struck him as adorably cute and not at all intimidating. Though nervous to be in the cave without Tucker or Duke, he was now glad he and Celosia were alone and wondered if what had begun as a group endeavor was becoming an unusual first date with no script. Indeed, neither knew what to expect in the cave, other than being told it was not too big and, since there was just one path, it would be hard to get lost.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As eerily enchanting as the walls and ceiling were, both were cognizant of just how utterly quiet the place was since it seemed they were the only people there. The silence increasingly made each want to fill it. Unable to think of anything else to ask, Ray finally spoke.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cDoing okay?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYep. You?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAll right,\u201d he answered. \u201cI don\u2019t see anything scary. Still, it\u2019s nice not to be alone.\u201d He laughed nervously.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI hear you. Same here.\u201d She smiled at him and tapped his arm. Just her touch launched a warm current slowly traversing his whole body. Though excited about the cave, Ray thought of Celosia ever more.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 While shining the flashlight at some strikingly large stalactites above, his foot accidentally kicked an empty beer can, suddenly shattering the silence with a loud echo and prompting both of them to jump.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAh!\u201d he exclaimed while shining the flashlight at the echo\u2019s culprit. Celosia could not help laughing, though she tried to minimize it.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOkay.\u201d He lowered his head. \u201cI may be a tad more nervous than I let on. Sorry,\u201d he noted and hoped the dark hid how red-faced he felt.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI jumped too,\u201d Celosia conceded with a chuckle.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 He appreciated her understanding, while she found it refreshing that he did not deny his slight unease. She noted what a contrast he was with her last two boyfriends who turned out to be way too macho for her.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The walls were cool and often damp to the touch since trails of water sometimes trickled down them from the dripping stalactites overhead. Celosia thought how much more enticing it was to explore such a place without a guide or fixed lights.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAh!\u201d she exclaimed and grabbed his arm with both hands.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d he asked, turning to her with a start.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cSorry.\u201d She laughed as she buried her head in his arm. \u201cSome water just dropped on my head. I didn\u2019t mean to startle you.\u201d She patted his back.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ray\u2019s body was suffused with a gentle, drowsy feeling, as if cuddled in a warm embrace. He so wanted to take her hand and thought this was just the right time, but hesitated and then silently chastised himself for missing such an ideal opportunity. But he noticed with growing excitement that she now appeared to be leaning into him a little.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Celosia felt ever more drawn to this polite boy who seemed so thoughtful and transparent, way wittier and more vulnerable than anyone she had dated. Though she enjoyed feeling protected by him, she also liked how he acknowledged his nervousness.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As they continued slowly walking and admiring the stalactites above, the path turned to the right and led into a large room about fifty feet wide, twenty-five feet tall, and that went fifty feet back. The flashlight revealed this to be the end of the cave. Some ten feet in front of them was a large hole about six feet deep engulfing most of the room. As Ray slowly turned his flashlight to the right, they saw an old, beat-up, open coffin on the ground about fifteen feet from them.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAh!\u201d they exclaimed in unison, each jumping and Celosia grabbing his arms. Closer inspection revealed a cartoonish painting of a vampire on the side of the coffin with the large inscription, \u201cDracula\u2019s Crib,\u201d along with plenty of graffiti.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 They both exhaled a major sigh of relief and Celosia burst out laughing, burying her head in his arm again. Ray noted that she held onto his arms for a few seconds.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m so glad the others ain\u2019t here, especially Zelma,\u201d he observed and shook his head.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOh, come on, Ray.\u201d She patted his shoulder. \u201cThat would\u2019ve scared all of them.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cMaybe,\u201d he replied. \u201cBut I know Duke and Tucker have been here and, from the looks of that thing, I \u2019spect it may have been here a long time.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cDo we dare get closer to see what \u2026 or who \u2026 is in it?\u201d she whispered in his ear.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 With Celosia gripping his left arm with both hands, Ray led them slowly toward the coffin. As they got within a few feet of it, he gradually raised the flashlight to reveal the whole coffin was filled with empty bottles of liquor, wine, and beer. Celosia could feel the tension go out of Ray\u2019s body and patted his back again, laughing.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As they turned to look at the large hole comprising most of the room, they saw a steep drop-off to get into it and a lot of puddles. Then Ray\u2019s raised flashlight revealed an enormous explosion of large stalactites hanging and dripping from the ceiling.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWow,\u201d they exclaimed together.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWell, this alone was worth the walk,\u201d Ray declared, \u201cand all the scares along the way.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIndeed,\u201d Celosia chuckled.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIt hasn\u2019t been that long since we entered this cave,\u201d Ray observed. \u201cWould you like to just sit on the edge of the big hole and admire the view above?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cSure,\u201d she answered. They walked to the ridge where Ray sat down and raised his arms to help Celosia settle in to his left. As their feet dangled a few feet from the floor, Ray felt her body brushing against his. They sat in silence for a while as his flashlight slowly scanned the entire room, from left to right and bottom to top.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThose stalactites are stunning,\u201d she marveled. \u201cYou know, this cave could be a tourist attraction. There oughta\u2019 be lots of folks here to see this. I mean, I\u2019m glad they\u2019re not. This wouldn\u2019t have been nearly as scary or fun with it all lit up and full of people. But the park really should do a lot more with this place.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Normally Ray carefully weighed every word before speaking, but he realized he was no longer doing that. Though still a little tense to be so close to such a pretty girl, he was more excited and surprised by how much more relaxed and confident he felt.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cRight. This is absolutely one of the neatest places I\u2019ve ever been,\u201d he noted.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIndeed,\u201d she agreed. They grew quiet again as their eyes followed wherever he pointed the light.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHere. You want to shine the light? You may be more interested in certain places than me,\u201d he offered.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNah, you\u2019re doing just fine.\u201d She smiled at him and he smiled back. How he wanted to kiss her, but still stopped himself. Painful memories of awkward attempts to do so resulting in rejection made him pause. Rationally and intuitively, he felt Celosia would likely reciprocate, but he hesitated risking another disappointment, especially after such a satisfying time together.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Why doesn\u2019t he kiss me?<\/em> She wondered. What a truly unique moment this is, and how much more obviously interested in him do I have to be? Come on, Ray. Man up, fellow. I promise not to bite \u2026 well, maybe just a nibble or two. <\/em><\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Celosia kept smiling at him and then stretched her arms behind her to lean back for a better look at the ceiling. Ray aimed the light at the stalactites directly above to enhance her view.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThanks,\u201d she said as her knee nudged him. He turned from examining the ceiling to look at her face staring above. In the partial light, he tried to recall if he had ever seen an impressionist painting depicting a night scene. Now leaning on her elbows, Celosia looked so peaceful and content. She turned to look at him and smiled.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 He blinked, smiled, and then leaned into her. Her smile grew into a grin and she opened her mouth. As their lips met, he put the flashlight down to embrace her, and she wrapped her arms around him as they began their tongue play. With so little experience, Ray was very gentle while leisurely exploring her mouth, and he hoped she could not feel just how rapidly his heart was beating.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 After her earlier disappointment, Celosia was not expecting a kiss, figuring Ray was too shy or perhaps had a girlfriend. But she was thrilled when he at last took her in his arms. She knew this was the most uniquely romantic setting for any kiss she ever had, and she was delighted at how softly he kissed her, so unlike previous boys.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 After a good while, he began slowly kissing her cheeks and neck. She breathed louder and pulled him tighter, rubbing his back with her hands and lifting a leg on top of him.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Losing himself in what felt like a precious moment to be forever fondly recalled, he parked his thoughts and let his tongue lick her neck up to her chin and then enter her mouth again. She put her hands under his shirt to feel the warm skin on his back and realized he was sweating despite the cave\u2019s damp coolness. After another long kiss, he lifted his head with a concerned expression.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIs your hair wet?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWhat? No, it\u2019s fine.\u201d She laughed and kissed his cheek. \u201cYou worry too much. I\u2019m not used to that with guys but it\u2019s actually kinda\u2019 nice.\u201d They lay with their backs on the floor looking up at the stalactites. Ray placed the flashlight between them to brighten the ceiling and took her hand.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 They enjoyed the view in silence for several minutes. Both wanted to speak, but were content to remain as they were. Finally, she turned to him with her head in her hand and he returned her gaze.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYou know, I\u2019d all but given up on you ever making a move on me, Ray.\u201d She giggled as his eyes widened. \u201cYou haven\u2019t kissed many girls, have you?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cUmm, not really. Was I that bad?\u201d He looked crestfallen.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNo! It was lovely. So gentle and sweet. Like you were almost afraid of hurting me, but still really passionate. Just don\u2019t worry. I\u2019m not that fragile.\u201d She smiled.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOh, okay. I\u2019ll make a note of that.\u201d He blinked with a studious look, prompting her to chortle into his hair.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cEver so serious. Such a silly boy,\u201d she said while playing with his hair.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHey, you think Nolana and the others may have wanted us to come here alone?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAh, yeah. I definitely get that distinct impression.\u201d She paused. \u201cI\u2019m glad they did. That was real thoughtful … and cute.\u201d She giggled slightly.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m actually right touched at the notion myself,\u201d he mused. \u201cI may even have to thank Miss Zelma if it turns out she played a role in this thing too.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOh, of course, she did,\u201d Celosia remarked. \u201cHeck, it may have even been her idea. You know, she wouldn\u2019t kid you so much if she didn\u2019t like you, Ray.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 He nodded and smiled at her. Not being able to think of anything to say, and skeptical of good things ever lasting, he rolled on top of her to resume their kiss. She eagerly enveloped him in her arms and noted his increased ardor. They made out a long time before he raised his head and smiled at her. She ran her hands through his hair and smiled back.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 He looked at his watch and noted it was well after noon and the others would likely want lunch soon. She agreed and they reluctantly decided to rejoin them. But when he stood and lifted her up, the flashlight went out. Feeling for it in the dark, at last he found it and repeatedly tried to turn it on again but with no success.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cCrap. The batteries have died,\u201d he exclaimed. \u201cOf all times for this to happen.\u201d While initially startled, Celosia could not help chuckling at Ray\u2019s reaction.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWell, I\u2019m glad at least you\u2019re amused,\u201d he remarked, prompting further laughter.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cDon\u2019t worry, Ray. You\u2019ve still got your phone\u2026. Don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 He felt his pocket and paused. \u201cOh, no.\u201d He groaned. \u201cI loaned it to Duke back at Nolana\u2019s house to call his dad, and so much was going on with everybody talking all at once that I guess I didn\u2019t even notice he forgot to return it. Well, you\u2019ve got yours, right?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 She blinked and paused. \u201cNo.\u201d She sighed as she put her hands on her head. \u201cI left it in the car. Sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 After a few seconds, he stated in a resolute voice, \u201cIt\u2019s okay. We\u2019ll still make it back just fine. There\u2019s no need to worry.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIf the flashlight had died on us on the way in, I probably would have turned back,\u201d she observed, \u201cbut I\u2019m confident we can make it back all right too,\u201d she tried to reassure him, and herself.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYeah, me too.\u201d He put his hand on her shoulder. \u201cThe good news is that there\u2019s only one way out. So please take my hand and let\u2019s just slowly hug the wall,\u201d he advised.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYep,\u201d she agreed as she took his left hand while he led the way patting the wall on their right. In addition to how utterly dark the cave now appeared, each noticed how much cooler it felt again. Celosia was grateful for his jacket as she zipped it all the way up and turned up the collar.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Both noted how exceptionally still and quiet the place seemed again. All that was heard was their footsteps. When his foot hit an empty bottle, he jumped slightly while she squeezed his hand and then giggled.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYou knew that had to happen,\u201d she declared.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAh, yes. It couldn\u2019t have been me otherwise,\u201d he lamented as she patted his shoulder. They continued walking in the dark, albeit much slower than on their way into the cave.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Celosia smiled at the realization she was alone in a jet-black cave with a boy met just a few hours before but could not recall when she had been happier. How much she owed her dear cousin for surely setting them up. With her eyes more adjusted to the dark, she had to bite her lip from laughing at how Ray was hunched forward diligently patting the wall with his right hand and protectively guiding her with his left. Touched and amused, she felt suffused with gratitude.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Though still somewhat tense, Ray felt liberated, imbued with a newfound sense of confidence and well-being. Just a couple of hours ago, he had no idea he was embarking on the most romantic trip of his young life. Indeed, he had not dated anyone in months and had long grown skeptical about what he concluded were mighty meager romantic prospects. Though he had been able to garner dates, nothing ever came of them. Everyone appeared to have a pleasant time, but he was usually too insecure to make a move, and the girls soon stopped returning his calls. Celosia struck him as a dream made real.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Just as both were lost in thought, they heard a sound ahead and stopped to listen.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOoooohhh\u2026. Ooooooohhh\u201d came a high-pitched echo.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYeah, I guess we should have known we couldn\u2019t get out of here without at least one more scare.\u201d Ray sighed. \u201cGreat. What now?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Though tensed up from the strange noise, Celosia was relieved to chuckle at his remark and patted his shoulder.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWell, if need be, I can still use the flashlight as a club,\u201d he declared, prompting another chuckle as they started walking again, albeit even slower.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The eerie voice came again, this time louder, but accompanied by another appearing to admonish it. Then more chatter was discerned and, with feint but growing light, Celosia and Ray realized it was a young family talking at the cave entrance.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOkay, little fellow,\u201d Ray remarked. \u201cSince you scared us, I reckon maybe it\u2019s time for you to have a good scare yourself,\u201d prompting Celosia to grin.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As the light ahead grew stronger, they walked a little faster and Celosia noticed Ray\u2019s head was no longer hunched forward. As the tunnel veered left toward the entrance, they saw a couple with a young boy and a small girl. When the boy saw them, his eyes widened and his mouth dropped open.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cDon\u2019t worry! We\u2019re not vampires or ghosts or anything else scary,\u201d Ray assured him. \u201cEverything\u2019s fine. Our flashlight just died on us. Otherwise, I\u2019d let y\u2019all borrow it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIt is plenty dark in there,\u201d Celosia advised them. \u201cThere\u2019s no light.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cBut it\u2019s totally safe,\u201d Ray reassured them. \u201cNow there is a coffin.\u201d That revelation prompted the entire family\u2019s eyes to grow large.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cBut it\u2019s only a joke,\u201d Celosia interjected. \u201cAnd it\u2019s just full of \u2026 bottles. Nothing to fear.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The family looked at each other in silence, prompting Ray and Celosia to doubt they would do any cave-exploring that day. The students smiled at each other as they walked into the sunlight and started down the wending trail to the beach holding hands. Along the way, each silently speculated on the reactions of the rest of their party to seeing them linked and wondered if they should pretend nothing happened. But neither wanted to raise the matter or be the first to let go of the other\u2019s hand. When they reached the ground level and walked toward the other two couples laying on the beach, each tried to prepare for whatever reaction came, yet both also felt emboldened.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Forty feet away, Zelma saw them and immediately grinned and tapped Nolana furiously on the shoulder. Duke and Tucker greeted the pair with big smiles.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWhat a cute couple,\u201d Zelma declared. \u201cHave a big time getting lost together in the Love Cave<\/em>?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Celosia grinned and looked at Ray who smiled despite blushing deeply.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIt was really great,\u201d Celosia volunteered.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI bet,\u201d Zelma replied.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYay. I\u2019m so happy y\u2019all had fun up there,\u201d Nolana stated, her face beaming.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s definitely the coolest little cave I\u2019ve ever explored,\u201d Ray announced to smiles and giggles. \u201cDid y\u2019all know there\u2019s even an old coffin in there?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThat thing\u2019s still there?\u201d Tucker asked. \u201cWow. It was there the first time I ever went in that cave. Shoot, that must\u2019ve been ten years ago.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Leaning back on her elbows, Zelma put her foot on Duke\u2019s back.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cCome on, Duke. Let\u2019s me and you get lost deep <\/em>in the Love Cave<\/em>. Who knows what we\u2019ll find in there.\u201d She laughed rubbing his back with her foot.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cRay even led us all the way out in pitch blackness on account of the flashlight dying on us,\u201d Celosia bragged.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAw, super,\u201d said Nolana.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYou go, Ray,\u201d Zelma exclaimed. \u201cWoo hoo. Such a gallant hero. Yeah, Duke, let\u2019s see what we can find in the dark up there.\u201d She winked at him.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWho\u2019s up for lunch?\u201d Duke asked.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cPshaw. That\u2019s all you ever think about \u2013 food,\u201d Zelma stated with a frown, pushing him with her foot before turning over on her stomach.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWell, I\u2019m definitely up for lunch since I am famished,\u201d Tucker announced.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI could eat too,\u201d Nolana added.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cLet\u2019s check out The Big Catch, that seafood place just down the road,\u201d Tucker suggested. \u201cIt\u2019s got awesome catfish and the best sweet potato fries and blackberry cobbler anywhere.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The sunbathers gathered their towels, suntan lotion, music player, and football, and all three couples walked to the car. When they started to get in, Ray opened the front passenger door for Nolana and Celosia.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNo, Ray. You and Celosia sit in the back,\u201d Zelma ordered as she directed Celosia to the back seat and then took Ray\u2019s hand to sit him beside her before she sat in the front by a smiling Nolana.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Soon after pulling out of the parking lot, Tucker got excited.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHey. Let\u2019s take a major<\/em> road trip, like several hours away, and stay a whole weekend. What do you say, y\u2019all?\u201d He smiled at everyone. \u201cAnd now that we\u2019re all part of a couple, everybody would always have somebody to go with wherever.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYay. I vote for Jekyll Island,\u201d Nolana offered. \u201cIt\u2019s so pretty, the historic homes are gorgeous, you can bike all over the place, and it\u2019s got the least-crowded beaches anywhere. Oh, and Driftwood Beach is just enchanting.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIf we head to the coast, I vote for Saint Simons Island,\u201d Zelma announced. \u201cIt\u2019s got swell beaches too but it\u2019s not so isolated like Jekyll. There\u2019s way more to do, places to eat, and lots of shopping<\/em>. Won\u2019t that be fun, Duke?\u201d She grinned at him as he rolled his eyes and looked out the back left window.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI say let\u2019s go big,\u201d Tucker declared. \u201cReal big, like a trip out west to the great outdoors where we can hunt and fish and hike and just revel in nature.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cUgh,\u201d Zelma replied. \u201cThat\u2019s a guys\u2019 trip. Knock yourselves out, fellows. Send a postcard.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHow about it, Duke?\u201d Tucker asked, looking at him in the rearview mirror.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHmm,\u201d Duke considered before his face lit up. \u201cHow \u2019bout Savannah? The girls can still go to the beach at Tybee Island while the guys can tour places like Fort Pulaski, and we can all enjoy so many super restaurants and all those swell squares in the historic district.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWell, hallelujah,\u201d Zelma exclaimed, turning to smile at Duke. \u201cWho knew my man still had some romance in him after all. There\u2019s hope for you yet, Mr. Duke. Two votes for Savannah!\u201d She blew him a kiss.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cCelosia, how about you and Ray?\u201d Nolana turned around to ask eagerly.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Still holding hands, Celosia smiled and looked at Ray who beamed back at her. \u201cLet me put on my thinking cap, Cuz. I\u2019ll figure on it a spell and get back with you directly.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cRay, any ideas?\u201d Tucker asked, looking at him in the rearview mirror.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Starting to smile, Ray looked at Celosia and then answered.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI nominate Mammoth Cave in Kentucky. It\u2019s the biggest cave on the whole planet.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWoo hoo \u2013 me too!\u201d Celosia agreed.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" by Douglas Young \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHow much longer before we get there?\u201d Zelma asked from the back seat\u2019s right window. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYes!\u201d Tucker exclaimed with one hand on the wheel and the other hitting the roof of his old car. \u201cThank you, Zelma. I bet Nolana you\u2019d ask within twenty minutes of our leaving, and I […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1769,77],"tags":[1565,1770,1123],"class_list":["post-15678","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-egophobia-84","category-english","tag-douglas-young","tag-egophobia-84","tag-english"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p6DakB-44S","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15678","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=15678"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15678\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":15679,"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15678\/revisions\/15679"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=15678"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=15678"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=15678"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}