Let Me Know

Deep within the earth, she yawned, considered opening her eyes. Not sleeping, not fully awake.

She lifted an arm, a lazy circle. The earth around her shuddered and trembled.

Besides her, always, the white dog whimpered, whined. Impatient. She soothed with a rub, a pat. Soon it will be time to build. And to create.

Sense those little pricks? They are climbing. She rose. Dry leaves crunched under her bare feet. How I wish they would not. They cannot be children of my children, who know better than to tread on my home without proper respect and gifts.

I thirst. I hunger. And do they care? They do not.

Sizzle. Pop! Glug!

Ah, my lovely, my beauty. She knelt, trailed a hand in liquid hotter than any flesh and blood person could withstand. My breathing, living river of bubbling orange red. Lava, they call it. Why such a name? Why not kii pohaku? Or stream of Kilauea?

Poki woofed, a breath of sound which shook the mountain.

And they run. She smiled as pattering feet fled her home. Not children of my children, who brave greater things. These are terrified little mongooses. Ignorant mortals. She tossed her head, swung heavy black hair to one side. Shall we go discover what they left, faithful shadow?

A bit of fun before work begins.

*****

Make it snappy, sweet cakes.

I should file a complaint for sexual harassment about this idiot. Pilot or not, if James keeps it up, he’ll discover how unfriendly I can make these skies. We’re ready. Alyssa alerted the gate agent boarding could begin. Aloha, Karen.

I’ll take a quick peek up to First Class, make sure the kids settle in, say hello, and meet Adam’s wife. I can’t waste any more time with Kirsten gushing Tom, Tom, Tom. We’re here to work.

One more flight. One more flight. One.

No male is worth getting school girl giddy. Alyssa straightened a seat covering and stepped to the door. The first passengers rushed forward. Aloha. Welcome to…

She took advantage of a lull several minutes later to hurry upstairs. Kirsten waited at the private entrance for first class, smile in place. Most of the seats were filled. Excellent. We might depart early.

For Lord's sake stop fussing. Anna Bates glared at her husband. "I'm pregnant. I’m not helpless."

No one in their right mind would ever accuse you of such a thing. Alyssa grinned. You’re too much like your mom.

Aly! Anna hugged, released, laughed. How's my favorite Aunt?

Aunt. Wow. Odd to after— Excited about a month's vacation. Alyssa hugged Robin to whisper in his ear. She'll be asleep before long.

Maybe. Robin winked. This is way swanky. I can't believe you upgraded us.

If I can't assist family, who can I help? Alyssa moved aside as two older passengers walked up behind them. I need to get back downstairs. Kirsten is your attendant.

Damn. Adam Howell, Anna's brother, slung an arm around Alyssa’s shoulders as the older couple sank into their plush seats. I wanted to pick your brain on sites for new orders.

You're a newlywed. No business. Alyssa held out a hand to the woman at his side. I’m Alyssa, or Aly. It’s a pleasure to meet you.

I’m Emily. I’ve never been to Hawaii. Her bluish-green eyes twinkled. I hope we get a chance to talk more. I’ve always loved your state’s mythology and history.

Yeah, we all love the idea of meeting Pele, Goddess of Fire and Volcanoes. If I gained a dollar every time someone asked me about her… You want to talk to my brother or his best friend Harry. They’re the official historians. How's married life?

I'll tell you after a month. We've compromised on the important stuff. Emily grinned. Who gets the bathroom first.

It's much better when we shower together. Adam kissed his wife’s neck.

I’m downstairs. You're sharing this section with a celebrity. Alyssa waved. I want all the details later.

In her section, settled into the routine she'd completed a thousand times, she greeted, assisted, laughed. Assured passengers they were on time. She checked seat belts and overhead bins. People in the exit row comprehended their responsibilities and were all over age eighteen. Last boarding before vacation. Last one.

Kirsten's delighted squeal floated down. Guess Mr. British Movie Star arrived. Maybe now we can depart. Once the ground crew shut the door she nodded to Mel. Hit it!

In the event of a water landing, your cushion will float and not be sanding. Mel waved his arms and boomed out the rap-like sentences.

Remember strap on your oxygen mask. Do not reach for the brandy flask. Alyssa grinned as several passengers swayed in their seats and laughed.

As the song continued, passengers listened with a mix of delight, confusion, and a few with annoyance. Ah well, there’s some in every crowd. More than one cell phone raised. Great publicity for the airline. Harry will be pleased.

She made one last walk down the narrow aisle. Once Mel and Linsey, the other attendant, secured into rear seats she buckled into hers. There’s nothing in the world better than flying. Not great sex.

The plane raced, lifted, grinding sounds of landing gear retracting. A dip, a swerve, a climb. This beautiful dance, the grace of it, movement and beauty. Never gets old. Never will. I can’t imagine not being in the sky.

She monitored passenger reactions. Often how one handled take off set the mood for the flight. Let’s discover who might need extra attention.

Some showed weariness, leaned back as if they couldn’t wait to not be in upright position. Others read books, magazines, business forms. How can anyone be blasé about flying? How sad.

She noticed a family with three small children. Need the bag of extra toys. An older gentleman in row eight shaded a bit green. His first flight? Another young man closed his window shade and tapped it with his iPod. He could watch the clouds and mainland vanish yet chooses a virtual existence. A business man rattled his newspaper as the young woman beside him prattled on about Hawaii. A baby's wails split the air. People groaned and threw the harried mom dirty glares.

Mon Dieu. I love flying.

Alyssa grinned as the Captain announced cruising altitude and the all clear for electronics. She unbuckled and stretched. A couple of male passengers watched. One threw her a wink. Dream on, buddy.

She helped the economy crew prepare. Mel continued singing. Linsey joined in as they rolled to the tail section. As long as no one complains, let them entertain. The Airline and Harry, manager of the Hilo Airport, stressed happy passengers above all except safety.

Cotton candy clouds outside, no turbulence. I’ll never get tired of the freedom, even enclosed in metal. I do love my life.

Alyssa wheeled out the cart for her section. As she poured coffee and soft drinks, she chatted, laughed, answered questions. I may get weary of the same old answers: Yes, it’s Paradise. Yes, the Islands are built on volcanoes still active. No, I never met Pele. She passed out dozens of snack bags. Retrieved a tote of magnet tiles for the kids, grinned at their delighted squeals, and received grateful thank you whispers from the stressed parents. She heated a bottle for the mother of the fitful baby, watched the infant fall asleep.

Kids can be sweet. She climbed the stairs to first class. But thank God I never had any. I'll settle for Aunt status.

Her family settled in. Anna sat engrossed in a paperback novel. Robin slept. The newlyweds cuddled under a blanket in the same reclined seat. Ahem. No mile-high club points, mister. Or I'm telling your mother.

Emily giggled as Adam laughed. Go ahead. She and your brother are charter members.

Eww. Thanks for the image. Not. Alyssa continued up to the aisle. Ah. I recognize the infamous Tom Williamson from posters in Kirsten’s apartment. She checked the flight crew, brought them refreshments.

Big plans after we land? Alan, the copilot, took the coffee she offered.

A whole month of vacation. Alyssa nodded at the picture taped to the control panel. How’s your family?

Doing great, no complaints. Congrats on the down time.

It’s needed. She handed James his cup, managed to avoid eye contact and groping fingers. Call Kirsten if you need anything. She’s up here today.

And speaking of… Alyssa closed the cock pit door. Where is she? Ah, good. Doing her job. Kirsten bent over the corner sofa to hand Mr. Williamson a drink.

The plane hit a pocket of turbulence. Alyssa gripped the nearest partition and remained upright if a bit tilted. Her fellow attendant… Mon Dieu!

Kirsten tumbled head first into the actor's lap. Her head buried between his thighs and body sprawled across him.

This could get interesting.

Chapter Two

Above her stretched the endless blue sky. Once I believed to be one with the sky, did you know my darling? She petted Poki’s head, noticed his longing, sighed. Go. Run.

He dashed, fleet of foot and light of body, flying through the air to the sand. His joy in racing, in the simple brush of grains under his feet made her smile. My ever-faithful companion. One who truly loves me.

The sun shone warm, strong. The air smelled fresh, clean, fruit and flowers. And ocean. Always of ocean. I miss you my brother, king of the sharks. When will you come visit?

The waves laughed, danced. And she smiled.

I will visit all my lands, my Kingdom. Note what changed, what I need to create. All but Maui. I am ... I remain not ready to face what happened there.

A fin popped up, waved, vanished. This time she laughed. The earth shook.

*****

Alyssa rushed to help. Mr. Williamson wore a glazed expression. Oh God, no! Kir hurt him? Harry will cardio about an injured passenger.

Are you both all right? She pulled her coworker to her feet. Kir's face bloomed redder than her hair.

I'm fine. Mr. Williamson squirmed upright. He wiped at the wetness spreading across his pristine white shirt. He touched Kirsten’s arm. She jolted. Are you all right?

I swear she'd be a puddle if I didn't brace her. I can admit he possesses one damn sexy voice. Do you need to sit down? Are you hurt?

I'm okay. Kir straightened. I'm sorry, Mr. Williamson.

There's nothing to apologize for, love. Perhaps you could join me for dinner? His rich British accent filled the awkward moment. His face wreathed in a smile.

Wow, I owe her an apology. This man isn't handsome. He’s drop-dead gorgeous. Say yes Kir. Or I will. Alyssa shook her friend to get her out of the fog. We'll get you another drink, Mr. Williamson.

When you get the chance. Mr. Williamson smiled.

Hello, tug on my dormant libido. No wonder the man made millions. His smile screamed pure sex. Alyssa led Kir to the small galley. Keep your tone brisk. Professional. We can’t be friends right now. Snap out of it. Or I'm sending you downstairs.

Dinner with Tom. Oh, my freaking God! Kir grabbed Alyssa's shoulders to jump up and down. We're having dinner!

You didn't say yes.

Oh. My. God! Kir’s eyes widened. She spun, ready to race.

I understand you're excited. Alyssa grabbed her arm, shook. Please be professional.

All right. All right. Kir rolled her eyes and bent to push at her hair in the reflection of the steel coffee pot. I'll behave and do my job.

Take a minute, compose and keep your promise. Alyssa gathered a towel and hurried back to Mr. Williamson. You’ve our sincerest apologies.

He grinned and wiped his chest. It's no bother. But you could do me a small service.

Great. He's a playboy going to ask me for drinks before he meets my friend for dinner. Alyssa sighed. The ‘hero’ of Kir’s dreams is a jerk. My turn to be professional. How can I assist you?

He motioned to Anna. She's reading a novel I finished. I'd love to discuss the plot and characters. Could you please ask if she has a few free moments?

Mon dieu. Color me wrong. One second. She moved a couple of steps and grinned as Robin let out a snore. Mr. Williamson would love to talk about the book you're reading.

Anna glanced across the aisle, dropped her jaw. I wanted to ask him loads of questions. She leaned across her seat. I'm Anna. I bet you get asked this all the time. Did you ever meet The Doctor? It's my favorite show.

The Doctor? Alyssa blanked. Oh! Anna’s obsession with the British time travel show is as great as Kir’s on Tom Williamson.

I’ve met her and her three predecessors. Tom grinned and patted the sofa. Care to join me? Your husband should once he awakens.

Anna rose in a flash and curled up beside him before Alyssa could blink. He'll sleep the whole flight. He always does. What’s Matt Smith like?

Once the two engaged in an animated discussion of Doctor Who Alyssa glanced into the kitchen. Kir?

I’m on the way. Kir tugged the suit jacket of her uniform over her hips, fussed with her lipstick.

Damn, this might be a low blow. But Kir must realize there’s a time and place. Please, don't make me reconsider my recommendation.

I won't. Kir smoothed a hand over her hair. Thank you for your concern.

You're nuts about him. Alyssa softened her tone. Nothing wrong with injecting a bit of friend. He's only passing through. He's not forever. A fantasy.

I'm not a complete idiot. Kir managed a smile. I only appear to be.

Glad you’re all right. Alyssa squeezed her shoulder. Catch you after we land.

Sure. Kir prepared a tray of new drinks. Movements brisk, she followed procedure to the letter. Confident her friend reverted to flight attendant mode, Alyssa left.

She researched a connecting flight for a woman en route to Sri Lanka. Passengers asked about tourist spots. She debated which beaches were best. One asked about Pele, the recent volcano eruption and the state’s history.

Charlie would be shocked. He and Harry think I’m hopeless at all things Hawaiian. I speak native better than either, thanks to Grandfather Kanae.

Several couples cuddled. More newlyweds? What would it be like to be married to someone who couldn't keep his hands off me? Or to fuss as Robin does?

Mon Dieu. Relationships take loads of work. I couldn’t fly near as much if I needed to devote time to a man. But still… a girl can dream.

The flight ended without further incident. Alyssa arranged to meet her family in the First-Class lounge. She assisted passengers in unloading, assured a man he could refuse the leis since he had an allergy to flowers, received hugs from the children and their parents.

This flight is over. A few more minutes and I’m on vacation. Yes!

Mel needed to dash to another gate as stand in for a sick attendant. Alyssa took over his chores. She finished the after-flight checklist and waved Linsey down the hall. Complete. Vacation need to get away…. Vacation here I come today….

Except Kir didn’t appear. What the hell is keeping her? Still mooning over Mr. Movie Star? Deserted First-Class section. Alyssa opened her mouth to call out— and found her friend.

Kirsten wrapped around Mr. Williamson, lip locked. A hair couldn't fit between them.

Mon Dieu! What the freaking hell? Ahem, excuse me.

The couple broke apart. Both swayed, dewy eyed.

The cleaning crew needs the plane. I'm sure you can find another place to get acquainted. Alyssa tapped her foot. The click, click, click of her heel sounded like gunshot. Or not. Damn it all! I’m leaving for vacation and you pull this stunt? Harry will flip.

Kir yanked out of Mr. Williamson's embrace. I'm sorry. I'll finish the checklist. She sent the actor a heated glance.

Whoa. Damned hot. We aren’t supposed to fraternize with passengers. What they do in their time is their business. I’ll handle Harry. I'll do it. If you two come up for air, Charlie's hosting a luau at five tomorrow.

We'd be honored to attend. Mr. Williamson smiled, yet never glanced from Kir.

I’m surprised the Passenger Boarding Bridge isn’t on fire from the heat between those two. Alyssa shook her head as the pair rushed to the terminal. Not sure Pele could match their intensity.

Straightening First Class didn’t take long. Kir managed to accomplished most. Alyssa gathered her purse. These shoes are off in five…. four…three….

Thanks for a smooth flight. James blocked the exit.

Team effort. Alyssa all but pushed past him into the hall. She braced for the slight sway of the gangway. My family is waiting.

I didn't realize they were aboard. Your brother and his wife? James took her elbow.

No. His step-children came for spring break. Alyssa reached up, loosening his grip, to remove her cap. She pulled out the hair clip, all but moaned as heavy waves fell past her shoulders. The pressure on her head lessened. Now all I need is to get rid of James and these shoes. No incidents are always a good thing.

Things go better when you're on board. James gripped her arm. I'll miss you.

Could he not take a hint after five hundred rebuffs? You'll forget me before an hour's past.

I don't want anyone else. James grabbed her shoulders. Come home with me. Stay the night. I'll give you something to remember through your lonely days.

Let go of me. Alyssa narrowed her eyes. I’ve told you. I don’t get involved with co-workers. I’m not interested.

Rules are made to be broken. He leaned in. You want to come. I promise amazing sex.

Excuse me.

Alyssa grinned. I don’t need to knee James and cause a scene.

Harry Kanae stood feet away. Black glasses crooked on his long angular face, his ice blue eyes focused upon her as if James didn’t exist. Your family is waiting. Shall we go?

I figured you left I took so long to finish up. She dashed to Harry’s side.

You're worth the wait, my darling. Harry pulled her close. Charlie and Christine will believe I couldn't wait to whisk you away somewhere.

They might. Alyssa reached up to brush a strand of messy brown hair from his forehead. Guess we better—

Harry swept her over his arm. Bent her back. Kissed her with the deep passion of a man long denied physical pleasure.

Alyssa grabbed his arms and held. Mon Dieu! My thighs are in flames. His lips…God…No kiss aroused me more. His warm breath on her cheeks fanned her arousal. Those gorgeous eyes blazing behind geek glasses stared right into her soul. Heat ten times the temperature of lava pools. More.

Mind blank, she opened and kissed him back.

When Harry set her upright, she clung. Because she wanted to. Because she must. Knees weak and unsteady, thighs damp. Her core burned and ached. Holy flying planes. Who the hell might guess Harry Kanae, ultimate geek, could kiss like some ancient about-to-test-your-fertility god?

He’s never kissed me with such lust. If he ever—

Mr. Kanae. I had no idea you and Aly were… close. You’re married to the job.

Incorrect once more, James.

Listen how cool and calm he is. How the hell can he stand like an iceberg when I’m in flames? James you ass. Never, ever tell the head boss what staff gossip. Moron.

She claimed never to get involved with co-workers. James glared at her. What a joke.

Subtle but effective, speaks volumes, the way Harry shifted in front of me. I can defend myself. I don’t need to be rescued.

But it’s nice Harry defends me.

She also requested you to let go, which you ignored. I’ll support Alyssa and her supervisor Mrs. Tolar should they file sexual harassment charges. Particularly after the scene I witnessed and your statements.

Now wait a damn—

It will ground you until the investigation is complete. Perhaps for weeks. Harry tapped up his glasses. Let me ask once more. Is there a problem, James?

I'll let you get to your destination.

Excellent idea. Harry waited until the pilot ran. Bastard. If you want to file, I’ll open an investigation immediately, Lyssa.

He would. Sweet, adorable Harry with his strong sense of justice. No. I’m…I’m fine.

Sure? Harry chuckled. You appear a bit unsteady.

Alyssa blinked a few times. Damn him. My lips still tingle and heart is racing. He is all smirking, the mongoose. You. Kissed. Me.

I did. Harry straightened his tie. Come on. The kids are waiting.

I want to come all right. Not the way you mean. Her stomach trembled. Her center all but dripped. Rampant lust raged. Shove me against the wall and fuck me, damn it.

Harry turned and walked toward the lounge.

He acts like the soul sucking kiss never happened. Damn him. Damned if I’ll let on how much his lips make me want to jump him. She jogged to catch up. Cleared her throat. Thanks.

No one who works for me deserves to be harassed. By anyone. Harry held the door, features blank and polite. Your car isn't big enough. Emily and Adam can ride with me.

You're coming too? Wrong words. I want to watch him come. In me. On me. Down my throat. She bit her lip. One of his eyebrows rose. To Charlie's, I mean.

I’m invited. Problem? He waved at the couples waiting for them.

No. Whatever the hell happened in some alternative universe is gone. He’s Harry Kanae. Charlie's best bud. My Supervisor’s Boss. Sorry for the delay.

As they walked to their cars, Alyssa let the flow of conversation roll over her. I can’t stop thinking how his lips claimed, took, gave. He kissed to devour, like I’m the feast after a month of fasting. What the hell am I supposed to do now I’ve tasted a bite? Ignore him? Pretend I don’t want more?

She glanced over, caught his eye. He winked. Uber geek. Freaking sexy. I want my teeth in him. My legs wrapped around his waist. Core milking him for every drop.

All right, Mr. Strike-Out-of-the-Blue. Game on.

Chapter Three

Such warm comfort. I missed the sun. One hand trailed through the black hardened lava surface as she watched the restless sea waves roll. Mother wished me be a water goddess, but I, oh no. Fire. Explosions and heat. Creation. Rebuilding. Lights. Sounds. Colors!

A thought, a snap, and pineapple appeared by her side, sweet chunks of delicate flavor. Besides, my selfish sister claimed all water as her domain and damned if I’d submit to the bitch for eternity. Water, bah. No shape or form. No beauty or color. No heat. Never cold for me. I need solid. I need unchanging unless I create, unless I will it be. My Islands, my children.

She lay back full on the mountain side, warm, alive. I created you first, Beloved. My Moku o Keawe. Mine. You breathe. You live. You grow. I birthed you from my fire, my Hawaii. Your mountains sheltered me from the wrath of my jealous bitch sister. Is it my fault her husband preferred me? Who wouldn’t want me over her? He is but a man, after all. She tossed her hair, gloried in the freeness of the breeze tangling the ends of the heavy strands. She chased me, made me a refugee, sent her waters to flood wherever I rested. Except my beloved Kilauea. You sheltered me. She could never reach us. She tried time and again. Failed. Gave up. And in your crater, my Halema’uma’u, I made my home.

*****

A soft breeze ruffled the paper table cloth. Harry leaned on the base of a palm tree, pretended to listen to Charlie and Adam