Chapter 16 - Tasha
My stomach made a couple of wild turns as I prepared for our semi-date. I had no idea what to expect and it was slightly unsettling. Vadik had requested I wear something nice but comfortable. What did that mean?
Staring at the clothing hanging before me, I finally decided to wear jeans and a silky blouse. Checking the clock as I headed to the shower, I knew I had to be quick. The time seemed to have run away, it was almost time to leave.
Stepping out of the bathroom, I pinned up my hair and looked at my reflection in the mirror. “Yes,” I spoke to myself. “That’ll do.” Moving to open the door and head down, I found Vadik about to knock.
“Hi,” he breathed out pulling his hand back swiftly. “You look nice,” he added smiling.
I was relieved he approved. It was only a thank-you date, but it felt good to be going out. Outside three cars were waiting. “Why so many cars?” I asked as he held open the door for me.
“Just safety precautions,” Vadik responded closing the door. But I saw him speaking to the drivers and guards before he got in next to me.
Looking at him, I asked again, “What did you tell them? Why are there so many guards and where are we going?”
“No need to worry. Wait and see,” Vadik replied grinning widely.
I was slightly worried about the number of guards but as we drove the cars became less and I settled. The drive wasn’t long either. The limo had barely stopped when Vadik jumped out. He quickly moved around and opened my door.
Stepping out I studied the place and area trying to see if I knew where we were. But nothing looked familiar. There was a sign next to the entrance that read ‘Mini Golf’. I looked at Vadik a bit puzzled. “What are we doing here?” I inquired.
Vadik laughed heartily before replying. “Why do you look so unsure? Have you never played Mini Golf?”
“No,” I said shaking my head and shrugging. “I have not. Isn’t it a child’s game? I never considered it something fun to do.”
There were large walls surrounding the place. Entering through the main doors, I saw a small office on the one side and a cafeteria on the other. Vadik paid at the office and collected our gear. “Want something to eat or drink?” he asked handing me a silver golf club.
“No, thanks, I’m fine,” I replied.
I followed him out the other side to the course. It was much bigger than I had expected. The course held a variety of animated objects at the end of each putting lane. They started one side, with twists and turns leading to the end hole.
The first couple of lanes went very slowly for me. Vadik almost sunk each ball with his first shot. I took five to ten hits to get it close enough to sink it. There wasn’t much conversation as we started. I wasn’t sure what to talk about. I assumed he felt the same.
After four or five lanes, I felt frustrated at the course and Vadik. He appeared to find my poor play quite amusing. When we got to the fifth hold, Vadik went first. I watched his ball run the curves and land next to the end hole.
As I prepared to make my shot, Vadik held his hand up stopping me. “Would you like me to show you how to play?” he inquired.
“Sure,” I responded bluntly. He could have offered to show me with the first hole, but no he waited so I could amuse him first.
Vadik tapped me on the shoulder as he came to stand beside me. “Just relax, the more tension you have the harder it is to make a good shot. Just go with the flow,” he instructed.
“Easier said than done,” I replied over my shoulder rolling my eyes.
Holding his club out before him, he spoke as he showed me how to hold it. “Place your hands one above the other. Keep your grip close and tight. Your stronger hand should be the one in front.”
Shifting my hands, I held the club up. “Like this?” I asked.
“You almost have it, nice,” he replied, grinning. Vadik moved to stand behind me. “Let’s look at your stance,” he said, taking hold of my hips. Move your feet a bit more apart and bend your knees a tad.”
I felt the thickening of the atmosphere around us as he breathed into my ear. The way we were standing was very intimate, I could almost feel his heart beating against my back. Coming in closer, he placed his hands over mine. Pulling the club back, we swung at the ball together.
We stood frozen watching the ball roll towards the hole. It stopped inches away from its goal. Beaming, I pulled out of his grip and went to the ball. Tapping it lightly, it entered the hole. Holding the club above my head, I jumped up and down. “I sunk it in two shots,” I hollered.
“Yes, very nicely done,” Vadik commented as he picked up our balls and headed to the next one.
The next couple of holes went quickly as I got better with each hit. Once we reached the last hole, I almost caught up with Vadik’s points. If I sunk the last ball with one shot, I would win the game.
Calculating the angles, and timing my swing, I hit the ball with confidence. It was the perfect shot. I stood amazed as the ball ran along the course and sank. “I win, I win,” I huffed turning in a circle. “No who’s playing bad?” I added walking proudly towards Vadik.
Vadik laughed heartily as he shook my hand. “You sure did, well done,” he said. “Now let’s go.”
After handing in the gear, we returned to the limo. “Please take us to the next stop,” I heard him telling the driver as I got in.
“Next stop?” I questioned him as he sat down beside me.
“Oh, yes, indeed we do,” Vadik replied tapping my knee.
“I thought the mini golf was our semi-date?” I added.
Vadik grinned. “No, we still have some things to do. The date was for the entire day. But don’t stress, you will enjoy the next one,” he replied.
Wondering what he meant, I watched as the scenery changed. The drive to our next stop was slightly longer than the first. Vadik opened the small fridge and took out a bowl. Opening it and holding it towards me, he spoke softly. “Some cheese, biscuits, or fruit?”
Looking into the bowl, I saw an assortment of snacks. I didn’t feel hungry, but looking at it, my stomach growled. He placed the bowl between us and had some cheese with biscuits. I ate some fruit and tried the cheese.
“Thank you, that was nice,” I said taking a sip of the bottled water. He had just placed the bowl back in the fridge when the limo slowed and came to a stop. Looking out the window, I knew what we were going to do.
My mood lightened. Smiling at Vadik, I could hear my tone rising as I spoke. “I’ve always wanted to come here, but never got the opportunity.” Bouncing in my seat, I opened the door and jumped out before he could even get out.
It was hard to keep my energy contained. I loved wines and visiting a wine tasting farm has always been a dream. Vadik joined me on my side of the limo. Grabbing his hand, I pulled him with as I practically stormed the doors.
“Slow down, there’s no need to rush. We will get there and can stay as long as you like,” he huffed reigning me in softly.
Biting my bottom lip, I glanced at him as I spoke, “Did you know that most people recommend this place? They say it has some of the best wine in the world, the world! Can you believe that?”
Vadik smiled and winked at me before replying. “Indeed, I have heard the rumors. It is why I thought of bringing you here so we can see if it’s true.”
The outside of the building had a wooden barrel kind of appearance. It actually looked like we were entering a giant wine barrel. Just inside the door was the reception desk. Vadik paid for our tickets, and the lady directed us to a door on her left.
Inside we were met by a tour guide. “Good day folk,” he said shaking Vadik’s hand. His voice was very high-pitched. It sounded like he swallowed a type of whistle or something. “Follow me as I take you through the history of the farm and our delicate wines.”
The introduction to the farm was enlightening. But when we got to the tasting part, I felt slightly overwhelmed. The tour guide explained how each wine was made, how long they had to stand, and how each was tested for quality.
Some were served with plates of cheese, biscuits, or sliced meats. These complimented the taste of the wines, which was very interesting to learn. We were about halfway through when the guide stopped and asked us if we wanted lunch.
I giggled softly as Vadik spoke to him. “Thanks, but we had something light on our way here.”
The guide nodded and proceeded to the other side of the building. Vadik leaned closer as we walked. “What’s so funny?” he asked softly.
Looking up at him, I whispered, not wanting the guide to hear me. “I was just thinking that there are so many wined to taste here. That if one had a glass of each, I was sure you would be leaving stone drunk.”
Vadik smiled at me shaking his head. Bumping at him lightly, I smiled back. The guide stopped and turned to us. “These last ones are the oldest and a selection of rare wines.” He said before heading through another door.
Once our tour was finished, I felt a little light. But I enjoyed it as I was less tense. The guide led us to the last room before the exit. Here, we could purchase some of the wines to take home. There were many people standing around waiting to be helped.
Against the two side walls were shelves filled with bottles of wine. Under each was a board with the name of the wine, the date, and origin. We moved along the walls to decide which one we wanted.
Pointing to one that I particularly like, Vadik leaned in speaking softly. “You are more than welcome to take a bottle of each or a case.”
Feeling my cheeks heating up, I knew the blush was apparent. “No,” I breathed out. “There are too many I liked.”
Vadik took my hand, turning me to face him. “It’s to thank you for saving my life, so please, take as many as you like,” he said.
As we stood staring into each other’s eyes, our hands lingering in the hold, I felt my stomach turning. I nodded and smiled before lowering my head. Vadik gently lifted my head with his fingers. But before he could speak, a man joined us. “Good day, may I help you?”
“Yes,” Vadik replied turning to him. “We have a couple of bottles we would like to purchase.
“Will you be taking them now, or we can send them?” the man asked.
Vadik glanced at me before replying. “I’m sure you can send them.”
“Very well, sir,” the man said handing Vadik a tablet with the list of wines. We selected the ones we wanted and handed the tablet back.
I was feeling giddy, and excited as we got back to the limo. “Thank you so much for everything,” I said. “This was an amazing experience.”
“Well, I’m glad you are enjoying yourself,” Vadik responded. “Now I think we should grab a bite to eat.”
As we drove off, I spoke while looking out the window. “I guess food would be nice.” I was feeling much calmer. Staring at the passing trees, houses, and other buildings, my view started blurring as I drifted off into thought.
When Vadik spoke touching my arm, I got a slight fright. “We are here.” Turning to look at him, I saw him getting out and coming around to my side. Getting out, I was astounded by the enormity of the restaurant.
“Are you sure we are at the right place?” I asked as we entered. My jaw dropped to the floor. It was even more beautiful inside. I felt like I had walked into a jungle. There were large trees, cages with animals, and what looked like picnic tables between waterfalls.
Vadik laughed, took my hand, and replied, “Yes, I’m sure we are in the right place.”
A waiter met us with a wide smile. “Just this way,” he said walking towards the back. We sat down at a table decorated with candles, flowers, and plates of fruit.
Vadik didn’t even give me time to speak as he placed our order. “Will you bring us two of tonight’s specials! A beer for me and the finest cocktail you have for the lady.”
The waiter nodded and walked off quickly. “You ordered for me before I could even look at the menu?” I spoke.
“Yes,” he replied winking at me. “There’s no need for that as I come here regularly. You are going to love it.”
Looking down at my watch, I noticed it was already six o’clock. I hadn’t realized the time was going by so quickly. Suddenly there was a loud screeching sound followed by a tapping. Turning, I saw the man standing on a small stage.
“Welcome everyone,” he said over the mic. His voice echoed through the trees. “It is time for some wilderness karaoke! Everyone will have a turn and there are many songs to select from. So, please don’t be shy, it’s just fun.”
Looking at Vadik, I felt my eyes growing large as I questioned him. “Karaoke? Did you know? I can’t sing, so I hope you’re fine singing by yourself.”
Laughing, he leaned back in his chair. “It’s not funny,” I pouted folding my arms across my chest. “I cannot sing!”
“It doesn’t matter. It’s just part of their tradition here. Most people can’t sing but everyone does it. Every person here knows it, its tradition,” he replied.
“They haven’t brought our food yet, let’s just leave,” I asked. The words had barely left my mouth when the waiter turned the corner with our food.
“Too late sweetheart,” Vadik said picking up his fork and taking a bite.
Lowering my head, I stared at the plate. How dare he do this to me? Sighing deeply, I pulled myself together. “Fine, but I am not opening my mouth,” I said staring at the cheese nachos and dips.
“You mentioned it wasn’t your first time here. Yet, I don’t see you coming here often. It’s not the kind of place for you,” I huffed at him feeling slightly irritated.
“Hey, don’t judge a person so fast. There are many things you don’t know about me,” he responded guarded.
“I don’t judge people, I observe,” I said taking a bite. Yet, I knew I had been judging him even before we met. He was right though. I knew nothing about him.
“Okay then,” I added. “If you enjoy this place so much, what about it lures you here? I’m sure you can get nachos anywhere, why here?”
Smiling, he swallowed his food before answering me. “I enjoy the atmosphere, its always exciting and everyone is happy. Just give it a chance.”
“Fine, but I will not be singing,” I replied shortly.
Grinning, Vadik leaned closer as he spoke, “Unfortunately everyone here has to. But you can always sing a song with me if that will make you feel better about it?”
“I wasn’t intending on singing by myself. Really, how could you?” I spat at him sitting back in my chair.
He laughed. It was the most I had seen him laugh since my kidnapping. He was in his element and totally relaxed. Vadik got up and assisted me in moving my chair around the table. Sitting next to him, I could see the stage clearly.
“There,” he said. “Now you can also watch the people sing.”
I had to admit the food was good and most of the people didn’t sound too bad. But there appeared to be having a blast. It was something you didn’t see very often.
“Come on,” Vadik said pushing out his chair and dropping his napkin to the table. “It’s our turn.” He reached out and took my hand as he walked around my chair.
“No, sit down,” I replied pulling away from him. “There are still many other people who can go. We can do it later.” I looked up at him pleadingly.
Vadik grabbed my wrist and pulled me to my feet. “Nope, we’re going,” he whispered as he pulled me along. Once on the stage, he handed me a microphone. My hand shook as I took it. My heart felt like it was choking me and sweat ran down my back.
Placing his hand over the head of the mic, he whispered. “Just look at me, forget the people.”
Glancing around I felt grateful for the two spotlights in the corners. Some of the people were blurred out through their glare. “Let’s pick a song,” Vadik said.
Turning my focus to the monitor before us, I couldn’t decide. There were so many. Some I didn’t recognize and some I only knew vaguely. As he scrolled through the list, I pointed at one I felt sure I knew by heart.
“Are you sure?” he asked before clicking on it.
I nodded uncomfortably as I tried to swallow the mountain growing in my throat. As the music started, I waited for the right time. I started singing in a barely audible voice.
When Vadik’s part came up, he sang out of full breast. Looking at him, I felt stunned. He was so good, his voice perfectly matching the tune. Vadik was staring into my eyes as he sang.
Glancing at the crowd, I wondered why I selected this song. Turning back to him, I felt a fluttering in my stomach as I melted into his gaze. As my turn came again to sing, the people started cheering me on. The room’s energy started rubbing off on me and I could hear my own voice over the mic.
Before I realized what was happening, I was singing my heart out. As the song ended, Vadik grabbed my hand, lifted it into the air and took a bow. Snapping back to reality, I felt my cheeks glowing.
Everyone one was cheering and clapping. I smiled shyly as we exited the stage and returned to our table. As I sat down, Vadik took my shoulder. Leaning in he whispered in my ear, “I’ll be right back.”
I watched as he disappeared between the trees. I had just finished my drink when I noticed him coming back. “Come on,” he said holding out his hand. “We have one more stop to make.”
“Another stop?” I inquired glancing at my watch. “It’s so late and I’m sure you have repaid my more than enough. We really don’t need to go anywhere else.”
He just kept walking. Opening my door, I got in and wondered what more we could be doing this time of the night. Vadik got in and we took off. He just smiled at me all the way without saying a word.
Shifting nervously in my seat, I noticed the limo stopping again. Getting out, I looked up at the enormous skyscraper before us. “What’s here?” I asked as he headed inside. I have never been here, and it looked too quiet to have a business open at this hour.
The doorman nodded and smiled as we entered. We took the elevator to the top floor. “Vadik,” I said as we stepped out. “What are we doing here?”
He grinned, took my hand and led me to a door at the end of a long hallway. At the door stood a guard. “Everything is ready, sir,” he said opening the door.
Stepping through the door I couldn’t see any significant features. It looked like an empty room with wall-to-wall glass windows. In the middle were two padded recliners and a small table between them.
“Okay,” I huffed pulling my hand out of his. “This is a little creepy.”
“No, don’t worry,” Vadik replied taking my hands again. “I promise its nothing to stress about. Come lay down.”
I walked with him to the two chairs and lay down on the one. Vadik took his place on the other. “What’s supposed to happen now?” I asked impatiently.
“Shhh…, just wait and see,” he responded.
We didn’t lie long when the lights suddenly went off and for a moment I was surrounded by darkness. Hearing a loud creaking noise I looked up. The roof of the building appeared to be shifting.
Once it was fully opened, I found myself starstruck. The night sky was so beautiful. It was filled with stars and even a hint of color. I felt a lonely tear slipping out of my eye and streaking down my cheek.
I was glad Vadik couldn’t see my expression. I breathed in slowly. It felt like I was floating on clouds emerging in the absolute brilliance of nature. “Thank you,” I whispered not wanting to disturb the night sky.
Feeling his fingers closing around mine, I glanced at him. “I’m glad you enjoyed your day and evening,” he replied softly squeezing my hand.
Pulling his hand properly into mine, I smiled as I responded. “We can do this any time, you just let me know when.”
“I would love that, today was amazing,” he said. I stared at the stars in the sky. It was a good day. I could do it again. He appeared to be a good guy even though he had a hard shell. Inside I was sure he was much softer.