Our unit had just returned from deployment and my current duties as a Naval Officer require my presence in the courthouse on U.S. Naval Station, Port Hueneme, California.
It is quite warm, and the judge allows frequent but brief breaks in the proceedings. Because my daily routine includes a great deal of strenuous activities, as soon as the judge releases us, I head for the shared office water bottle. Everybody drinks bottled water, usually from a very large bottle inverted on a stand.
After a couple of visits to the water bottle, My breaks included “bumping into” an early ’20s enlisted Navy female. Five three or perhaps five four. Very Slender with slightly darker skin. Brunette. Our conversation was limited to her opening with “Good morning Sir”, or “Good afternoon Sir” with her wide toothy, alluring smile and deep brown eyes, within which my mind sensed just a hint of eagerness for something unidentifiable. My acknowledgement was always immediate and pleasant, but not too much so. There were rules against fraternization between officers and enlisted.
My breaks were at the pleasure of the presiding judge – not the clock, yet there she would be – a few moments after my every arrival at the bottle. Only being a partial imbecile, by the end of the first week, it dawned on me that our meetings were probably not by chance.
She was not wearing anything that suggested she was involved with someone. The term “significant other” was not known to me then.
My complimenting her smile unexpectedly led me into an unimaginable lifestyle – unimaginable by me, at least. I had heard many times that people do live in this manner with great enjoyment. Not for me, though.
Our chats during breaks grew in duration. She was quick-witted and good natured. Then one Monday she said guardedly “I get a lot of compliments on my Lasagna. I will be making some this weekend. Do you get home cooking often?” “I replied – never” She asked if I could make it. My reply was YES! She already had a slip of paper with her name, phone, and address on it, which she slowly pressed into my hand, using both of her hands, along with one of those riveting smiles.