California Dreaming - Chapter Three

The following day went by way too fast, and I was getting more and more nervous about the date. It was only four hours away, and I had yet to figure out what to wear. So far, I had tried on 10 different outfits, but nothing seemed just right. And what about my hair? Up or down? Curls or flat? I didn’t even have the energy to worry about make up. Despite the stress, I had been able to relax long enough to do French tips on my nails. That was one less thing to worry about, but still only a small comfort.

The last few days with Michael had been so relaxing, but that was before I knew he was interested in me. That information changed everything. Now I was totally self-conscious about what I should and should not say, wear or should not wear. When I thought he only saw me as friend material it was so much easier. Now, I felt I had something to live up; I had to be perfect. Going from “Miss Normal” to “Miss Perfect” was no simple task, and I knew I couldn’t do it.

I finally stopped my frantic attempt to find something to wear and took a deep breath.

“Why did he ask you out?” I thought to myself. “Because he likes you, that’s why. And when did he start to like you? When he saw me on the video and spent time with me.”

I slowly began to relax. “Were you perfect then? No!”

I decided to just go as myself, no more no less, but my nerves were still a mess. I needed to calm down and breaking in my new tub seemed like a good idea. I ran to the bathroom, turned the water on, fetched a glass of wine, and dove into the soothing warm water.

****

Finally! I looked at myself in the mirror and was somewhat pleased with what I saw. I had chosen a white silk blouse with three quarter sleeves and small black buttons down the front. It was tucked down into classic black dress pants with a high waist. I accessorised with black heels and some pretty pearl earrings. I looked very sophisticated! I kept my hair straight and loose and the make up light.

I looked over my shoulder at my alarm clock; 7:50 PM. I looked back at my reflection and took another deep breath.

“Only 10 minutes ‘till your date with Michael Jackson.” I said it out loud and it sounded very surreal. My heart was pounding a mile a minute. I gave myself a last spray with my perfume and headed for the living room to wait for my date.

At exactly 8:15 he knocked on my door. I had been pacing back and forth ever since 8:02 and was sure I had been stood up. I learned later that when it came to Michael, being only 15 minutes late was quite an accomplishment. I was a bit offended because I always aimed for being on time, all the time, and so I expected other people to show me the same respect. But as soon as I opened the door and Michael handed me a single red rose and leaned in and gave me a kiss on the cheek, all was forgiven. He was dressed in all black with a satin buttoned up shirt, slacks and his signature fedora. He looked so handsome and sexy.

“Hey girl, sorry I’m late…. You look very pretty.” he said with a smile.

“Thanks” I said and looked down at myself and back up at him. “And you look….wow! You look really handsome Michael.”

“Stop it, you’re embarrassing me” he said and lowered his eyes, but I could see he was smiling.

“Sorry, but you look really good. Anyway, so where are we going?”

Michael looked up at me and answered. “Well not far…We’re not leaving the property. I hope you don’t mind that we’re not going “out” out. But that’s too risky, ya know?”

“That’s fine with me. It’s not the location that’s important, but the company.”

“I’m glad you think so…Come on”.

He reached out his hand to me and led me towards a waiting golf cart disguised as a Batmobile. He once again hammered the gas pedal and I was glad I was wearing pants.

“By the way, dinner will have to wait a while. There’s something we gotta try first. You’re not scared’a heights, are ya’?” Michael asked.

“Uhm, that depends on how high it is.” I answered, a tad worried.

“Don’t worry, it’s not that bad.” And with that, the took a sharp turn to the left, almost making me fall out of the vehicle. I kinda hoped I would never be in an actual car with him as the driver!

He put the cart into an abrupt stop in front of the huge Ferris wheel I had seen on my first day at the ranch. All the lights were lit and it was absolutely beautiful.

“So, whatta ya’ think? Pretty cool, huh?” Michael said with a smile.

“Very cool indeed!” I said as I looked up at the gigantic machine. “I can’t believe you have a Ferris wheel.”

Michael didn’t say anything but followed my gaze. After a few seconds he got out of the car, went over to my side and held his hand out for me. I took it and we went over to find us a seat.

“Ready girl?”

I nodded in response and Michael signalled the man operating the wheel. Soft music started playing as we began our way to the top. I couldn’t recognize the music playing so I asked Michael about it.

“It’s the Nutcracker Suite. You know, Tchaikovsky. I like classical music a lot. It gives you a chance to really live it, you know? It’s very powerful.”

“I guess so. It’s really lovely, Michael. I mean all this; the lights, the music, being here with you.” I blushed as I said this and I could tell Michael did too.

“I’m glad you like it.” He said without looking at me.

After a few rounds, the wheel stopped, positioning us at the very top. It was a bit scary, so I automatically scooted closer to Michael. When my thigh touched his I jerked at bit at the sudden electric current that went through me. I guess it was the intimate atmosphere; the two of us being all the way up here all alone with the romantic settings.

There was a slight breeze up here that made me shiver a bit. Michael instantly put his arm around me. Did I dare put my head on his shoulder? I decided yes…. And so I did. My heart was beating fast. I felt so nervous and didn’t quite know what to do with myself.

“Look, the stars are coming out.” He said in almost a whisper. I looked up and saw the pale beginning of night time emerging above us. When I looked down I caught Michael’s gaze and I forgot to breathe. I got lost in his pools of black and I couldn’t, nor wouldn’t, look away. His face slowly came closer to mine and I anticipated the kiss that I knew was coming in a matter of seconds. Michael’s hold on my shoulder got stronger as he was mere inches away from me now. I closed my eyes and prepared myself.

Suddenly our gondolar moved and my eyes flew open. The moment was over; we were on our way down again. Michael looked perplexed as he awkwardly removed his arm and cleared his throat.

“Dammit!” I heard him mutter under his breath. I smiled a little, as I imagined him having this all planned and timed. It was really very sweet.

When we were down on solid ground again, he took my hand as we strolled back to the waiting Batmobile and got in.

“So, ya’ hungry?” He asked.

“Famished!”

****

After a short drive he stopped at a roofed outdoor kitchen. Delicious aromas hit my nostrils and my mouth started to water. A chef was behind the counter cooking up something heavenly. We sat down at a round table adorned with a flower centrepiece. The chef had already put some of the food on the table and everywhere I looked there was one mouth watering dish after another: fresh fruit, steamed vegetables, fried rice, home made spring rolls, roasted potatoes, fish fried in coconut milk and last but not least, he brought over fried chicken.

I absolutely love food and I had to contain myself from actually drooling down my shirt. Michael must have noticed the possessed look in my eyes, ‘cause he started laughing at me.

“Haven’t you eaten anything today? You look like a lioness on the prowl.”

His voice woke me up and I realised how I must have looked. Damn!

“What? Oh, I only had breakfast… This all just looks so good and I had forgotten how hungry I am… And well, I love to eat.”

“Yeah, my sister is like that too. I’ve never been a big eater. Unless the food is served for me, I sometimes forget to eat.”

Michael indicated to me to dig in and so I did, and I tried my best not to eat more than he did. Luckily I discovered than when Michael does eat, he eats a lot.

After a dinner filled with lively and easy conversation, we moved over to a nearby couch and cuddled together under a blanket. The patio heaters were on, so I felt really nice and comfortable. He put his arm around my shoulder again and this time I leaned in and nuzzled against his neck, not feeling uncertain anymore.

I put my arm around his waist, feeling his hard stomach in the process. It had started to rain and the sound of water banging against the roof was the only sound that reached us. We just sat there with a nice silence between us. It was really very romantic.

Michael eventually broke the silence.

“Hey, you know what I’ve been wanting to do with you since yesterday?” he asked in a low mysterious voice.

“No what?”

“I’m not gonna say….I’m gonna show it to you instead.” He bent down, tilted my head up with his finger and kissed me. His tongue parted my lips, went in and searched for mine. It was a slow and lazy kiss and our tongues twirled around each others in a sensual slowdance. We were tasting each other. It lasted several minutes and when he pulled away, my entire body felt numb.

“Are you coming?” he said as he stood up.

“Coming where?” I asked.

“Remember, there was something I wanted to do with you?”

“This” meaning the kiss “wasn’t it?”

“No silly! We have to go inside.”

“But it’s raining!”

Michael stood up and pulled the blanket over his head. “Get under here girl”. I stood up to join him and we started running towards the house. There was no point in taking the Batmobile since it had no roof, so the blanket would have to do.

We made it there without getting too wet. Michael grabbed my hand and led me towards the couch of the main living room, now completely furnished. The room now looked homey and the fire in the fireplace really dotted the i.

“Ok, now you just wait here, ‘kay? And I’ll be right back.”

He turned around to leave but stopped and turned around with a devilish grin on his face. “Oh and girl, you might wanna stretch….’Cause I’m reeeeally good!”

He left and I sat back and tried to figure out what on earth we were going to be doing. Well, I knew what I wanted to do; that kiss still lingered in my body and I could still feel and taste his lips. Just at the mere thought of it, my body became hot. Oh god, I was burning and I desperately wanted Michael to put out the fire that was scorching out of control in my loins….

Footsteps sounded behind me.

“Ready girl?”

“I guess so.” I said nervously.

“Get over here then. This is gonna be great!” His face was lit up with boyish anticipation. I got up from the couch and headed over to Michael to find out just what I was supposed to get ready for.

California Dreaming - Chapter Two

I woke up the next morning bathed in sweat and trying to catch my breath. I didn’t exactly have a nightmare--no, I had a very pleasant dream about Michael. He had come in through the glass doors of my bedroom and made love to me. It started out nice and tender, but after a while a fire was lit in his eyes and he had his way with me. Oh boy, did he have his way with me! I could hardly keep up. Too bad it was only a dream…. I needed a cold shower right about now.

Later I was standing in front of the full length mirror looking down at myself in my new uniform. It actually fit perfectly and I didn’t look as “old maid” as I thought I would. The apron gave my body a sexy shape. I looked up and eyed myself. Like most women, I wasn’t satisfied with the face looking back at me. I had brown hair, which was ok, but I would have liked it thicker. I looked into my green eyes, pulled my lips back, and took a look at my teeth. I guess they could be whiter. I hated the fact that I had a small chip on my front tooth, but the dentist said there was no point in fixing it. I guess I had to live with it; at least my lips were full. I guess my body was ok. I was not a stick figure, even though I longed to be, but more on the curvy side. Some guys may find that attractive, but I sure didn’t! I loathed being normal. The only thing I was totally satisfied with on my body was my ears, which were small and cute. I decided to keep the uniform on to get used to the feel of it.

After finishing my breakfast I put on my headphones, pressed play on my walkman, and began doing the dishes. I started literally killing “Material Girl” using the dishwashing brush as a microphone. I was lost in my little private karaoke session when I suddenly felt a hand on my shoulder. I jumped and quickly turned around, causing the soapy water on the brush to go everywhere, meaning right into Michael’s left eye!

“Aw, it stings!”

“Oh shit, I’m sorry, but you scared me…Again! Here’s some tissue”.

I leaned down towards Michael who was hunched over I pain, covering his eye. Before I could react, he quickly stood up and my front teeth collided with his scalp.

“Ouch!!” We both yelled out at the same time. My hands were covering my mouth and Michael made a face of pain, now covering his eye AND the place of impact on his head. We looked kind of foolish and after a few seconds we both started to laugh.

“You are a danger to be around, you know that? Yesterday I almost died and today you hurt my teeth” I said, still laughing. “This time your sneak tactics backfired. Are you ok?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. I still have one good eye left” he said with a smirk “And besides, I wasn’t sneaking. I tried knocking, but no one answered. I could hear someone was home. It sounded like someone was killing cat, so I entered on my own behalf. Turns out you were just killing Madonna.”

“Oh shut up” I said, jabbing him on his arm. "Better har music than your, right?"

I looked up at him and smiled and I could feel my face turn red with embarrassment from knowing he had heard my poor attempt at singing. As I always did when embarrassed, I bit down on my bottom lip. Michael leaned in towards me and looked searchingly at my mouth and I suddenly stiffened thinking back at my dream.

“Oh no, my head chipped your tooth! I’m so sorry!"

I calmed him down and told him it was an old injury caused by a heavy make-out session with a boy with braces. Michael laughed while wiping his eye with the tissue.

“I can see! It’s a miracle!” he said in a very dramatic tone, thinking he was very funny.

After we had both gotten a hold of ourselves and had recovered from our injuries, Michael told me why he was here.

“Uhm well…. I was wondering you know if….If you would like to watch a movie with me? I’ve never used my theatre, you know ‘cause I really haven’t been home, and I figured now would be a good time. It would be nice to share the first time with someone nice…I mean, using the theatre for the first time…with someone. Uhm, with you, ‘cause you know, you’re nice and all. If… you wanna?”

“I would like that very much. The first time should always be with someone nice,” I said teasingly.

His face turned red when he caught on and he dropped the tissue he still had in his hand. He bent down and picked it up and started fidgeting with it.

“Oh…I…Uhm…what do…I mean yeah” he said giggling and continued “so you wanna go now or do you have more songs to slaughter?” he said and winked at me with both eyes.

“Stop it now, or you’ll be flying solo mister! Give me a minute to change and I’m all yours, ‘kay?”

“You don’t have to change. You look kinda cute in that uniform” he said, giving me the once over.

“Oh Please!”

I turned around and headed for my bedroom but I was cheering inside. He thought I looked cute. Yay! I had a bubbly feeling in my chest, like a highschoolgirl that had just received a compliment from the hottest guy at school. I quickly untied my apron and slipped out of the uniform. I picked a plain white summer dress that matched Michael’s white shirt; it fell nicely around my curves down to my knees and I felt comfortable in it. I slipped on my white sailor shoes and headed towards Michael. He wasn’t in the living room but I noticed the front door was open so I walked outside.

Michael sat waiting in a golf cart with a huge grin on his face. “You ready?”

I climbed on board and he hammered the gas pedal, which instantly made me cling to my seat. As we drove around the corner of my place a gust of wind hit us. My dress flew up and covered my face. I let out a scream while franticly trying to straighten out my dress while Michael almost hit a tree; he couldn’t stop laughing. The cart swerved left and right forcing me to grab a hold of my seat again in order to prevent myself from falling out, which only caused me to loose the grip of my dress and it flew right back up.

Oh, this was going great!

Michael was now laughing so hysterically he had to stop the vehicle.

He stumbled out of the car holding his stomach with one hand and pointing at me with the other. “Oh boy, you’re killing me” he managed to get out in between laughs.

I was absolutely horrified and hid my face.

“I can’t believe Michael Jackson saw my underwear! I could just die!”

“Aaw, don’t worry girl, I didn’t look, I swear!”

The expression on his face told the opposite as I peeked out through my fingers.

“You looked and you know it!”

“Well only a little…It was kinda hard not to. And don’t worry, they looked….Uhm….pretty.”

“Still doesn’t change the fact that my boss saw my underwear! Oh god!” I looked up and saw Michael maneuvering to get back in the drivers seat. He sat down and looked at me with a friendly smile.

“Hey don’t worry your pretty little head about that, ‘kay? Are you mad I laughed?”

“No not really… Guess it did look kinda funny, huh?”

“Girl you have NO idea! But you better tuck that dress in somehow. Can’t have you flashing me all the time, now can I? I might actually have an accident if you do.”

I couldn’t help but laugh and Michael hit the gas once again, but this time I was prepared.

****

We made it to the theatre without any further incidents. I figured I had maxed out my “embarrassment quota” for the entire week!

The theatre was beautiful and I had never seen anything like that in a private home before. First, we stocked up on popcorn, milk duds and soft drinks which were all for free and lying in glass displays, just like in a real movie theatre. We then ventured inside and chose two seats in the front.

“So what are we watching?” I asked.

“Well, it’s a brand new movie and it hasn’t been released yet. So you’ll actually be the first to see it… And I know the guy who plays the lead” he said with a proud smile on his face.

“Oooh, that sounds interesting! Who’s the actor? Anyone I know?”

“Uhm, yeah…. It’s me!”

“YOU! You’re an actor too? Talk about multi-talented.”

“I starred in a movie called The Wiz in the 70’s, but this time I wrote, produced and directed. It was really exciting and something I’d always wanted to do.”

“I can’t wait to see it! I bet it’s good.”

“Ok, but remember I’m really nervous about letting people watch it. I’m afraid they wont like it, so please be kind!”

“I will and don’t be nervous. No matter what people say, making a movie is pretty impressive. Not a lot of people can brag about having made one.”

“Thanks,” he said and smiled at me, “Let’s start it up then.” He put his hand up in the air and gave a thumbs up to the guy operating the projector. A few seconds later the movie started.

I could tell Michael was nervous, ‘cause he kept biting his lip looking over at me for a reaction to what was playing on the screen. I would be too if I had to put my work out there for millions to judge and pick apart. I reached over for his hand and caught his eye, gave his hand a reassuring squeeze, and then went back to concentrate on the movie. His hand felt so warm and soft that I decided to keep it in mine during the entire movie.

****

The movie was actually not that bad. It was probably not Oscar material, but it was fun. Michael looked so incredibly sexy in it, especially in the “Come Together” video. All I could think about was that ass in those pants, and that chest as he ripped his shirt open. How I would love to touch both! I think I might have squeezed his hand extra hard during that performance. I really wanted to feel him, and that was as bold as I dared to be.

“So what did you think? Did you like it? You hated it right? Was I bad? I know acting isn’t my real profession, but I though I did okay. Did I do okay? Did I? Why are you laughing?”

“You’re just too cute! It was good Michael and you did a great job, so don’t worry. I sure couldn’t pull that off…And the music was great!.”

He looked relieved. “What was your favourite part?”

“Well, it was really funny in the end of Badder when the two boys tried to grab each other’s hands but they just kept twirling around…. And the end was really…sexy.”

His face turned red and he looked down let out a nervous giggle. “Really? You though I was sexy?”

“Oh come on Michael! You seem to know what’s gonna make women drool! And to answer your question, and I think I speak for all women or at least the ones with eyes, yes, you looked, and look, very sexy.”

“You’re funny. I’m not sexy! I’m just me… But you look…uhm” he cut himself of… “Wanna go for a walk?”

I took his arm and we walked outside. Was he about to say that I was sexy? Nah…

We walked around his property and I determined right then and there, that I had never seen anything so beautiful before. Everything looked perfect and fairytale-like. I really enjoyed his company and even though he seemed very shy, he was still easy to talk to. He seemed to enjoy my company too. He kept sending me side glances, but when I tried to catch his gaze, he quickly turned away. That shy reaction made me think of myself as a teen when I had a crush on a boy. Did he like me? I was afraid to ask, so I just held on to him and kept walking.

Michael seemed proud of his Neverland property. His face was beaming as he showed me around and explained with enthusiasm what he had planned with some of the empty patches of land. Listening to him speak was so soothing and I could do it forever. He held my arm tighter and tighter as we walked, but at one point he let go and checked his watch.

“I have to be getting back. My manager is coming over in about half an hour to discuss the tour. I’ll walk you back to your place”. I anticipated for him to hold out his arm for me to take, but to my pleasant surprise, he took my hand instead.

****

“Well, here we are! Thank you for showing me your movie and for showing me around. This place is heaven on earth. I feel so lucky to be able to work here… Even though I haven’t actually worked yet!”

“No, thank you!. It was a pleasure to spend time with you and hopefully I’ll get to do it again?” he said with a questioning expression.

“I would love that very much. You know where I live, so just come by whenever.”

“I will take you up on that. ‘Bye…”

****

I spend the rest of the day colour coordinating my wardrobe and watching TV. The image of Michael ripping his shirt and showing off that milk chocolate coloured skin kept looping in my mind. While walking around with him, I really had to restrain myself from reaching over and checking out that colour with my own eyes. How could he not know how sexy he was? There sure was a difference between the groin-grabbing Michael Jackson I was used to seeing on TV and the one I had spent the last couple of days with. Maybe he only thought he was sexy while on stage? In my opinion, both Michaels were equally sexy. I settled into bed and caught myself missing him. I hoped with all my heart that he would come by tomorrow and wondered what we would be doing if he did. We probably wouldn’t be doing what I had in mind!

I started drifting away…

Suddenly I heard a noise coming from the glass doors and I sat up without turning on the lights. Coyote? No, it couldn’t be coyotes because now I heard a quiet tapping. I got out of bed but realised I was only wearing panties, so I quickly reached for my robe and put it on. I lifted the curtain just a little and peaked out, but it was pitch black.

“Is anyone there?” I said with a shivering voice.

“Uhm…it’s me… Michael.”

Oh shit, I thought to myself and hoped desperately he had come to ravish me like he did in my dream last night.

“What are you doing here? It’s 1 am!”

“I just needed to tell you something and I couldn’t wait”

I opened the door and Michael appeared. He looked straight into my eyes and took my hands in his.

“Look, I’m not very good at this so please don’t interrupt me, ‘kay?” I nodded and he continued. “I have to admit that there were two reasons why I hired you. The first was because of your qualifications and your personality. But the other reason, and please don’t take this the wrong way and think I’m creepy, was because I thought you were really….you know, pretty and also….sexy...and I wanted to get to know the girl I saw in front of the camera. That’s why I came by yesterday and also today… And so far I’ve only been pleasantly surprised.”
He took a deep breath and sighed and mumbled to himself. “I’m such a dork!”

“No, you….”

“No please wait, I’m not finished yet. I have to get this out. So, I guess what I’m trying to say is….I kinda like you”. He looked at me, waiting for me to respond. “Oh, I’m done now. Sorry.”

Now it was my turn. “Wow! I’m a little blown away. I don’t know if I should be offended, but….I’m really not. I guess I’m flattered in a way…and I kinda like you too.”

I could feel my face blushing like crazy, but it was too dark for him to notice.

“I’m so glad you’re not mad, girl. Could I maybe invite you to dinner tomorrow? You know, like a date?”

“Yes you may.”

“Great, so I’ll pick you up tomorrow around 8?”

“Sounds like a plan.” I smiled so hard I was afraid my face was going to crack open. I had to compose myself in order to not jump up and down screaming like a little girl. He asked me out! ME! Miss Normal!

“Ok then…I’m gonna head back so you can get some sleep and be well-rested for our date. Goodnight.”

“Goodnight”.

He turned around and walked away. Before I closed the door I heard him let out a victorious, but whispery “Yes!” I giggled inside as I closed the doors and went back over to my bed.

Before I had a chance to take my robe off, I heard the same tapping as before. I got up and opened the door. Before I could say anything, Michael leaned in and kissed me! My knees went weak as his soft lips pressed lightly against mine. It only lasted a few seconds, but it felt like an eternity. He stepped back, looked at me and licked his lips looking very satisfied. He then blinked at me and walked into the night.

OMG! I had a date with the milk-chocolate coloured man with the tight ass! What the HELL was I gonna wear???

California Dreaming - Chapter One

“I just got fired!”

“Oh no! What happened?”

I was talking to my cousin on the phone, whining about my new unfortunate situation. I had been working as a waitress in a small restaurant in L.A, trying to make ends meet which wasn’t easy. The pay sucked, as did the customers. And today I got the boot.

“I told a woman customer to fuck off. She treated me like shit and I was tired, so I snapped. I tried explaining it to my boss, but he wouldn’t budge. Asshole!”

“So what are you gonna do now?” she asked.

“I have no idea. Do you know of any job openings?”

“No, but I have the job section right here. Let’s see…Baker, dishwasher, lifeguard, teacher….Wait, here’s something: Maids wanted for ranch in Santa Ynez”.

“Ooh, a ranch! Like with horses and stuff?”

“It doesn’t say. The ad is very short. There’s a phone number. You got a pen?”

****
Later that day I called the number and set up an interview. I may have lied a bit on the phone, telling the man I talked to that I liked servicing people, which I in fact hated, but I really needed a job and a change.

The next day I arrived at a huge office building in downtown L.A and on the 17^th floor I met the other hopefuls. Most of them were women, but a few males were also amongst them.
I had to wait for about an hour until it became my turn. In the conference room I saw two men. One looked Hispanic and the other had a blond mullet. Mullet-guy extended his hand to me.

“Hello Miss. My name is John Branca and this is Señor Martinez. I’m the lawyer of the owner of the ranch and Señor Martinez will act as your boss if you get the job”.

“Hi. Pleasure to meet you both. Wow, I’ve never been to a job interview that required a lawyer before. Is the ranch owner some sort of king or something?” I said jokingly and smiled.

 “Well….Uhm…Some might say that. Let’s just say that he’s a known figure. I’m here to make sure the right people get hired. There’s a lot of agreements that needs to be signed and stuff. Normally this is not a part of my job, but I have found out that I might as well get used to going beyond my services” He said and winked at me. “Shall we begin? I hope you don’t mind that the interview is being videotaped? My client wants to look over all of the interviews himself”.

I nodded and said it was fine with me.

The interview lasted about half an hour and I had to answer a ton of question:  did I have a criminal record? What kind of experience did I have? How was I at keeping secrets? Did I like children? Additionally I had to sign a confidentiality agreement. The name of the ranch owner was painted over with a black marker, so his identity was still a secret. My curiosity was killing me.

****
 Days went by and I heard nothing from Mr. Branca. My food supply was running low and I was getting nervous. Did I get the job or did I have to look elsewhere or move back in with my folks? I rolled my eyes at the idea. 

I was scraping the last can of kidney beans when the phone rang. 
“Hello?”

“Hello Miss, it’s Mr. Branca. Sorry for the wait. But you might be happy to know that you got the job and you start within the next month or so”.

“I’m so glad…Thank you so much Mr. Branca. I can’t wait!”

“We’re looking forward to seeing you once again. Oh and Miss, if you don’t have a place to live, there’s housing available on the ranch property free of charge. Should I reserve one of the cottages for you?”

“That would be absolutely wonderful. Again, thank you and I will see you soon”. 

Saved by the bell! I was so relieved… Next stop, Santa Ynez! 

****
 A month later I arrived at my new home/work. It was the most breathtaking place I had ever seen. Lush green fields, flowers in all sorts of colours and huge beautiful trees covered the grounds. In the far distance I could see hills and valleys that reminded me of the wild west. Some of the buildings on the property were still under construction, but as far as I could see, the finished result was going to be out of this world. 
Soon, I met the rest of the staff and they all seemed very friendly. I felt good about my situation. Not to mention that the weather was nice and warm. I was told there was going to be a staff meeting in an hour in the main house. In the meantime I was shown to my cottage. It was not that big, but very inviting. It was already furnished and because of that, I sold my own furniture before leaving my old dump. I just brought my own knick knacks and personal belongings.

The furniture in the cottage was kept in light colours. Except for the floors, the wooden tables, dining chairs, bookcases, window frames and shelves, which were made of dark wood everything else was painted white. I had my own little kitchen with the necessary appliances. My bathroom consisted of a bathtub with a showerhead mounted on the wall above it, a sink with cupboards underneath it and of course a toilet. I was thrilled to find that I actually had gotten a huge bed and two pretty big closets in my bedroom. Next to the bed were two glass doors hidden behind white long curtains. I opened the doors and the curtains lightly blew inwards. The smell of the flowers hit me as I stepped outside. I closed my eyes and felt the warm breeze caressing my face. How lucky was I?

****

“Hi everyone and welcome. I’m Señor Martinez. You might remember me from your interviews. For those of you working in the kitchen, this is Mr. Andrews, your supervisor and head chef. As for the gardeners, this is Mr. Nuñez, head groundskeeper”.

I looked around at everyone assembled in the half-way furnished main living room of the house while Señor Martinez was talking. It too was kept in the same colour scheme as the cottages; dark wood and white walls. But the furniture was very different from mine. I guess it was kind of an old British style or something. To my amazement I was standing next to a huge grey castle encased in a glass vault. Maybe it was a family with children who were moving in here? I could have sworn I saw the top of a Ferris wheel in the distance when I made my way over to the main house, but that seemed a bit out there.  Then again, the people living here must be rich, and rich people sometimes do crazy things with their money.
I was assigned to Mrs. Peters who was in charge of all the maids. I got a list of the rooms I was in charge of cleaning. The rooms didn’t need cleaning everyday, so they were distributed out on the different days of the week. Sunday was supposed to be my day off, but at the bottom of my schedule it said that due to special arrangements the day off might be cancelled and switched with another day.

When everyone had been assigned to their supervisor, Señor Martinez cleared his throat and continued speaking.

“Now that everyone knows who their supervisor is, I think it’s time to introduce you to MY boss. As you all know, he is very well  known. Some of you may be surprised or shocked, but I must ask of you to behave as if he is like any other person. I may be your boss, but he’s the big man; in the end, you work for him. So try and stay calm, okay?”

 He went over to a door and peeked in with a nod, then stepped back. At first, I thought my eyes were playing a trick on me. This could not be! I knew exactly who the man that slowly, almost timidly, walked through the door was.  I couldn’t count the many times I had danced and sung myself into oblivion to his music.

My über boss was Michael Jackson! I kept staring at him. I had only seen him on TV and in magazines. If it was possible, he looked even better in real life. He was tall and had the body of a dancer. A very sexy dancer! His black curls were pulled back in a pony tail with the exception of a few strands that framed his face. His clothes were much more laid back than I was used to seeing. Black jeans and a red buttoned up shirt. The loafers were the same though. He wore shades, but took them off as he entered the room.
 The other workers looked as surprised as I was, but we all remained calm. Michael looked a bit uncomfortable as he started to speak.

“Hi, my name is Michael Jackson and I’m very pleased to meet all of you. I hope you will enjoy working here at Neverland. And um…”

He looked a little bewildered and gestured his hand towards Señor Martinez who took over. I forgot to pay attention to what he was saying because I couldn’t stop staring at Michael. I went over every inch of his body starting with those eyes. I was afraid to linger too long at them, afraid he was going to catch my gaze. So I moved down to his strong jaw and even stronger neck. He was so manly. His shoulders were very broad and that made his upper body and slim waist into a triangular form. His legs were long and…wow…his feet seemed huge! My dirty mind quickly painted an image in my head and I smiled absentmindedly. I couldn’t see his hands as they were tucked away behind his back, but a man with big feet usually had big hands! I looked back into his eyes and realised he was looking at me. When he caught my eye he looked down.  I thought I saw a hint of a smile on his seducing lips, but it was probably just in my head. 
 After the staff meeting we all went in our own directions. I headed back to my cottage, but before I went out the door, I looked back over my shoulder in Michael’s direction. This time there was no doubt:  he was looking at me. I smiled, but I wasn’t sure he saw it because he hurried back through the door he came from.

****

I wasn’t supposed to be working for the next five days. Some furniture still needed to arrive in my work areas, some of the floors needed to get a fresh coat of varnish and some walls still needed to be painted. That suited me just fine. That way I could get used to my new surroundings.

Once I got back to my cottage I started to unpack. I put all my knick knacks in various places, making it more like home and then went to unpack my clothes. As I walked into my bedroom I noticed a cardboard box sitting on the bed. I opened it and found my uniforms. They were pretty cliché. Black knee-length dresses with a round neckline, short sleeves and, of course, a white apron. I would have to try it on later. Right now I wanted to relax, and I was pretty hungry and thirsty. I remember Mrs. Peters told us that our refrigerators would be stocked this once, but from then on it would be our own responsibility to go shopping for food. 
I made a tuna sandwich, grabbed a cold Pepsi and headed outside to enjoy the last rays of the day. On the side of the cottage I found a lawn chair and dragged it to the front. I settled in and closed my eyes and thought about my first day at Neverland. I actually didn’t know it was called Neverland until Michael welcomed us. Michael Jackson was my boss! How weird was that? Aw man, those eyes…That body! I wondered what was underneath his clothes. Probably something amazing and big I thought as I remembered his feet. I giggled out loud and took a bite of my sandwich. 
“Hi.”

 I flinched and opened my eyes. Michael was standing in front of me smiling, but his smile soon faded and his face turned puzzled.

Oh my god! I couldn’t breathe. I literally couldn’t breathe! I was chocking on my sandwich!

I started waving my one arm franticly while I grabbed my throat with the other. He quickly caught on and raced to my aid. He yanked me up from the lawn chair and put his hands around my stomach and started jerking my body against his. By the second jerk, the piece of sandwich went flying out and I took a deep desperate breath of air. My body jolted as I coughed like there was no tomorrow. 
After a few minutes I was able to calm down. Then I remembered that Michael was there. I turned to face him and he looked extremely guilty.

“Oh gee, I’m so so sorry! I didn’t mean to startle you I swear. Are you ok?”

“Yes I think so. Wow, that was scary!”

“It sure looked scary. Can’t believe I caused that. Can you forgive me? Please don’t quit your job!” He really looked like he was sorry and I could see his hands were shaking a bit.

“Oh, I won’t. Besides almost dying, I quite like it here” I said with a smile. I could see his shoulders relax back into place and he smiled too. I swear I almost did die from being exposed to his perfect row of white teeth.

“I’m gonna try again and hopefully the outcome will be a bit less dramatic: Hi, I’m Michael”.

He extended his hand to me and I took it. I was right about his hands; they were big and the fingers long. I giggled and Michael raised his eyebrows questioningly.

“What?”

“Oh nothing…Hi very nice to meet you”. 
I went to the side of the house and fetched a second lawn chair and gestured him to sit. I took one look at the remains of my sandwich, but for some reason I wasn’t hungry anymore. I asked him if he wanted a drink or something, but he declined. I wondered what he wanted…Then he spoke:

“So you used to work as a waitress, right?”

 “Yes, how did you know?”

“Well, I viewed the tapes from the interviews… John picked a few he thought I should hire, so I did, and then I chose some myself. You were one of them”. He smiled again but looked down at his hands like a shy little boy.

“Wow…Well thank you. I really needed the job! Why did you choose me, if I may ask?” I thought I saw his face blush. He still looked down when he answered.

“Well I…. I dunno. You seemed like a nice person. And you’re young.”

I raised my eyebrows and when he looked up at me his eyes widened.

“No no, it’s not like that! I meant that all the others who applied for the job were either male or in their forties. I guess I liked the fact that you were a bit closer to my age. I’m turning 30 in about three months, so you’re about five years younger. When is your birthday?”

“November 11th … So I’m actually only four years younger than you”.

Michael nodded.

“So, do you know anyone here in L.A?”  he continued.

“I have a few friends here and my cousin. But my mom and dad lives in San Francisco. But no, I don’t know a lot of people here.”
“Well you also kinda know me now. Let me know if you need the day off or something for your birthday. I mean, that’s the least I can do after almost killing you, right?” he said and winked at me.

Well, he didn’t wink as much as he just blinked! But man, he looked so cute doing it.

“Unfortunately I won’t be here for your birthday. I have to go to Europe to kick off the second leg of my tour and won’t be back until November. And then I have to leave for Japan in December… And THEN I go back to the states to finish it of!”

“Wow, that sounds stressful. When are you leaving?” I asked, but at the same time I wondered why he apologized for not being home for my birthday. Did he make it a habit of celebrating with his employees? I didn’t think so. Maybe he was just making small talk, which actually seemed kinda weird too. I wondered if he had been making rounds, personally welcoming every single employee.

“May 18th … So I still have about a week here to relax”.  
We sat there talking for a while about all sorts of things. I kept wondering why he was singling me out. Didn’t he have tons of friends? I didn’t mind though. He was so nice and listened very intensely. It seemed like he wanted to know everything about me. I had nothing to hide, so I guess I blabbered away like a maniac. But I stopped talking when I saw his failed attempt to hide a big yawn.

“Oh, I’m sorry! I just never know when to shut up” I said apologetically.

“No it’s fine. I’ve just had a hard couple of days since I got back from the tour. I really enjoyed talking to you. It’s nice to talk to someone for a change”.

He emphasized the word “talk” and a quick shadow of sadness came about his eyes.

“But I guess I should be heading back to my house to hit the sack… Uhm… Would you be interested in talking to me some more one day…or…maybe not…I don’t know?” His eyes were avoiding mine, and it almost seemed like he was holding his breath.

“Sure, that would be very nice Michael” I said with a huge smile on my face.

As soon as he heard me say yes, he exhaled and smiled. “Alright then! I’ll see you around. Goodnight girl”

“Goodnight.”

As he turned around and walked away, I suddenly realised it was getting a bit cold. I took my sandwich and Pepsi can inside and threw it away and got ready for bed.

****

Right before I fell asleep, I started thinking about what had just happened. Had I just spend the last two hours talking to Michael Jackson? The Thriller!? Damn, that was so odd! And he wanted to spend more time with me! It was so hard to believe, but wonderfully true. He was only giving out a friendly vibe, but even that was huge! I remembered him doing the Heimlich on me, and I remember what I felt against my backside. And as far as I could tell, it was pretty impressive. A smile crept across my face and all sorts of naughty thoughts rumbled around in my head, reminding me it had been too long since I’d been with a man. I soon drifted off to sleep, tired from all the new impressions of the day but also very happy and content. I had a feeling this job was going to bring about it a lot of great experiences and maybe servicing people wouldn’t be so bad after all. Michael’s smile was the last thing I saw as I headed of to dreamland…