Page 7 of The Luminosity of Loriana Harper

“I’m a cuddle facilitator.” Patsy’s grin was wide. “And, as you know, my husband Vance is my partner. We’re here to make sure you have a good time and get the most out of the evening.” She slapped her hands on her thighs. “Everyone has a different reason for coming out tonight. Some of you are repeat flyers, and we’re thrilled to have you. Some of you are new to this, and the only thing you might want to reflect on is why you’re here and what you hope to get out of it.

“Ground rules are pretty basic. You have to ask before you touch. Each and every time. You need to receive an enthusiastic verbalyesbefore you proceed. That person has the right to say no, and you have to respect their wishes. You have the same rights. You don’t have to agree to anything, and if you’re feeling uncertain—if it’s a maybe—say no. You can always change your mind. You’re always allowed to change your mind.”

Everything Patsy said echoed the literature Loriana’d read, but her mind still churned. Could she actually go through with this? And was it easier because she knew Mitch, or harder because she knew they’d be facing each other in the morning? Her brain was running at such a high intensity, she almost missed the next piece of advice.

“You might become aroused. That’s quite normal. It’ll pass, I promise you. We don’t act on that arousal, and pajamas stay on at all times.”

Mitch shifted subtly.

Was he worried about this? It’d been a while for her, that she didn’t figure this’d be anything to worry about. Of course she was flattered when men asked her out. And especially touched when a younger woman had. She’d marshalled her surprise and turned her gentle rejection into an offer of friendship. That young woman was getting married next month to a lovely older woman, and here Loriana was, still single. Still yearning. Still unsatisfied.

“…puppy pile.”

What the hell?

Mitch leaned over to whisper in her ear, “I’d like to watch that, but I think I’ll restrain from jumping in since it’s my first time.”

Again, she’d read something about puppy piles, but the memory was slipping away. All she could focus on was how close Mitch was to her. He smelled vaguely of, well, man. No chemicals, just a lingering scent she associated with masculinity.

Patsy slapped her hands again. “And, finally, remember that tears and laughter are both welcome. Cuddling brings forth some powerful emotions. Let them wash over you. Take a break if you need to, ask for help if that’s what will help you through. Just remember tonight is fun.”

Fun.

Huh.

Patsy rose, and immediately people turned to each other. Some whispered while others spoke at normal volume. Loriana caught the discussion with three people to her right. Questions asked, enthusiastic answers provided, and soon the trio were crawling onto one of the many mattresses. She was about to turn to Mitch when a young man approached her. He couldn’t be more than twenty-two, and she didn’t recognize him.

“I’m Geoff. With ag.” He laughed. Not nervously, but not comfortably either. “I’m from Maple Ridge, but I drive over here because Patsy gives the best parties in the Lower Mainland.” He pointed to a spot in front of Loriana. “May I sit?”

She might not feel an enthusiastic yes, but something about the young man spoke to her inner teacher. “Yes, of course.” She offered a genuine smile, only belatedly realizing Mitch still lingered. She turned to him. “Are you staying?” Was that hope, desperation, or both?

“I thought I’d wander a bit.”

Not everyone had formed groups yet, and perhaps he wanted to make other connections. Although he’d come to see her, maybe he didn’t intend to actually cuddle with her. He’d said he was feeling more like a voyeur tonight. After Patsy’s reminder that anyone could say no at any time, Loriana suspected Mitch would be under no pressure to participate.

Before she could say anything, he rose. He offered her another enigmatic smile before wandering away.

Okay, then.

She turned her attention back to Geoff who’d settled before her. “I’m a newbie. Which, at my age, is really saying something.”

He cocked his head. “I’m not good at guessing people’s ages. I kind of suspected you were new, and I wanted to welcome you. Your friend would’ve been welcome to stay. I’m an equal-opportunity cuddler.”

Was he gay? Or bi?

Doesn’t matter.

“May I hold your hand?” His question was asked softly.

“Of course.” No forced enthusiasm here. Geoff gently took her hand in his. Not as a handshake but with a gentleness that spoke to her heart.

His left hand supported her right while he stroked gently from her fingers to her wrist.

She wasn’t turned on, but she was intrigued. Soon she was leaning into the touch.

“I love your pj’s.” Again, quiet words.

She couldn’t hold back the grin. Her pajamas were plain compared to Geoff’s Spiderman onesie. It made him look even younger, and also harmless. She sensed only genuine goodness from him.

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