At First Sight

By Susie Ray

Three stories of Lesbian romance and lust,

At First Sight – Lisa is merely going through the motions of life knowing that there must be something better out there if she can only find it. A chance meeting has Lisa all-aflutter – instinctively she knows that Leah could be someone very special to her – she even begins to believe in love at first sight.

Theirs becomes a sweet romance with bursts of passion that threaten to overwhelm them – where will it lead…?

 

The next two stores find our leading ladies making the wrong choices initially, but will they get a second chance at love?

 

The Wrong Wedding sees Skye falling into line with her parent's expectations and is set to marry respectable Peter, but she meets her true soul-mate at her hen do, too late to explore their feelings. Brooke tries to get Skye to at least postpone her wedding, with disastrous consequences. She moves away and cares for her ailing Aunt, but maybe there is still a chance at happiness?

 

Borderline – Lynn is swept up in a whirlwind arrangement with her new boss and cannot quite believe her luck, but it gradually descends into a toxic relationship that Lynn wants out of, at any cost, before she does something drastic.

Kate has her own issues and needs someone to share things with. A new journey with Lynn, helps each of them cope with their pasts and begin to re-live again.

• Language: English
• Publisher: S-Ray Press
• Release date: Feb 28, 2022
• ISBN: 9798201062200

Susie Ray

Susie Ray Author bio I love to read and lose myself in stories conjured up by the written word – I am a mature individual, but I can still recall love’s first sweet kiss and the sting of rejection; the elation of being brought alive, by another’s caress, or tender words. I write sapphic stories for my own pleasure as well as hopefully that of the reader, and my head is full of ideas and storylines that are desperate to be shared. Admittedly, it was a freebie, but the first sapphic tale I read, left me feeling wanting and empty. I thought ‘I could do better than that’, and I did! My stories draw on a lifetime of experiences and places I have visited, so there is always a piece of ‘me’ in them. My preference is for short stories; tales, in bite-size portions, although some topics, simply require a novella to do them justice. I feel my writing skill has improved and grown with me over time and I am pleased to offer some of my work for your pleasure. Come lose yourself for a while, like I do when I’m writing…

Book preview

At First Sight

Chapter 1

In the quiet solitude of her bedroom, Lisa’s thoughts were so intense, so vivid, she could almost hear the words materialising.

I have just met the girl I am going to marry, or at the very least, spend my life with!

Even though Leah and she had only spoken a few sentences, earlier at the hen-night, mainly answers to queries, Lisa simply knew this to be their destinies – to be together. Lisa wasn’t even sure that Leah is a lesbian – she was so shy and guarded with her answers and gave off no pertinent signals. So why was Lisa so sure? She is not the kind to wear her heart on her sleeve, so it can’t simply be infatuation, can it? Besides, if anyone had told her that she would fall in love at first sight, she would have told them, they must be crazy, but now, she was so confident that, doubts never entered her head and she was fast asleep in moments.

Lisa was glad last night’s do was on a Friday and she had ample time to come around and let her fuzzy head clear. It would be a week today before Cynthia’s wedding – she felt she could sleep until then, but a fresh notion gelled in her consciousness. She would see Leah again there, and try to determine if the thoughts that still made her smile had any credence whatever, or if they were simply the product of a fertile imagination, befuddled by alcohol and she had certainly supped her fair share last night. Well, it’s almost a rule that you have to try to get the bride-to-be, drunk, or tipsy at least.

Somehow, she shook-off the effects of over-indulgence – she had yet another zany idea. Her best party dress was the intended outfit for the wedding – it was practically new anyway, but she would get ready and go shopping for a killer-outfit in Leah’s honour – her soon-to-be girlfriend. Making a great impression was now top of her to-do list, that and a chance to get under her skin, just a little, so that she would consider going out with her.

One dress caught Lisa’s eyes in her favourite boutique. It was gold lame or something similar and drop-dead-gorgeous, but it really was more fitting for a red-carpet premier than a wedding, or maybe for the night when she proposes to Leah?

I must curb these fantasies, or risk coming down hard with a huge bump, if things don’t go as planned! This time she spoke the words out loud as if trying to ram them home and ensure she remembered the principle they engendered.

Sorry? Darcy, the boutique owner asked. Did you say something?

I love this creation, but I am looking for something stunning, flirty, suitable for a wedding – any suggestions? Lisa felt the flush in her cheeks at being caught off-guard.

Darcy was back in moments with a dress, obscured by the plastic bag that protected it from dust and the elements.

Try this one – it’s your size and you will give the bride a run for her money, in it. I think it will suit you perfectly.

Lisa benefits from a perfect size 10 figure, and contrary to other’s beliefs, she doesn’t have to work at it – it’s in her genes, apparently and that day she had made the effort and went shopping in heels that might simulate what she might wear with her wedding outfit, so that she could get the best possible indication of how she would look. The berry dress offered by the shop’s owner accentuated the tones of her hazel eyes and even the colour of her mid-brown hair and as Darcy zipped her up at the back, she felt almost regal in the dip hem creation with the layered tulle skirt, flowing effortlessly from the fitted high-neck bodice.

Wow – it looks made to measure. I ought to beg you to model it for me. Maybe the bride should be forewarned that she has strong competition on the day!

It feels wonderful – I’ll take it. You don’t have to sell it any more to me, it’s just what I was looking for. Already Lisa was imagining what a picture she would make, especially with her hair done professionally as well as her make-up.

She didn’t even wince at the price tag – it was worth every penny and some. It did prompt her to go shopping for co-ordinating undies and shoes that would complete the outfit. Leah doesn’t know what is about to hit her next week.

Lisa isn’t usually one to go overboard at functions like weddings and such, but the would-be bride Cynthia was one of her best high-school buddies and they had kept in touch, and it seemed to her, only right that she should make a special effort this time. Lisa almost convinced herself that was the sole reason for her departure from routine, as if Leah’s expected presence was purely coincidental, and that way she didn’t feel so guilty for spending so much on her outfit. She managed to completely overlook the cost of her morning at the beauty salon, especially as she was extremely pleased with the results.

The possibility of Leah having a boyfriend as her plus one hadn’t even entered Lisa’s head. She herself didn’t feel the need to be accompanied by a plus-one – she knew her own mind after all, and she was perfectly happy by herself.

So far, so good, and although the guests had made a concerted effort to turn out smartly, none of them that she had observed, held a candle to her, or so Lisa mused, but then another guest arrived and exited a taxi-cab. It was Leah and she looked a dream – the Mandarin style dress in the most colourful silks accentuated her semi-oriental features set in the most divine shade of olive to light-brown skin that barely needed make-up. Everyone stopped to take in her vision including Lisa herself. At least she was alone!

It was Lisa’s original intent to make a bee-line for Leah and try to pick-up from where they left off last week at the hen-do, but she was halted in her tracks at Leah’s spectacular arrival and the reaction to it. Fortunately, Leah must have had a similar thought and Lisa’s heart swelled with pride that the most divine guest was heading her way.

Are you okay, Lisa? You look startled – not still under the weather from last week’s boozy night, are you? She sounded truly concerned.

If I am startled, it’s purely at your beauty – you look amazing!

Lisa’s retort caused a flush to adorn Leah’s beautifully sculpted features and knocked the wind from her sails, and the bravado that she had been trying to perfect all-week long was shattered into a thousand pieces. Leah had felt the strange connection with Lisa, but her natural timidity, without the benefit of inhibition-banishing alcohol, was now on full view, but she still looked gorgeous. She needed to come up with a suitable response or Lisa might lose interest in her.

I bet you say that to all the girls. Leah tried a giggle as she spoke.

No, well, I have been known to say something similar, but I never meant it the way I do now, believe me. Lisa couldn’t help herself, but be honest.

‘Leah is very disarming,’ she thought.

Honesty – that’s a new approach.

Neither girl could prevent a fit of the giggles, as if they were school-girls all over again. But they were all being summoned inside, as the allotted time drew near. Everyone seemed happy on this joyous occasion, although Lisa and Leah were on a totally different page to the other guests. The hubbub ceased as the church-organ announced the arrival of the bride.

Cynthia was in no danger of being overshadowed on her big day – apart from a wonderful wedding gown that made her look like a princess, she was radiant, glowing with an inner beauty that only ever shows itself on special occasions like these. There were gasps of approval as she glided down the aisle on her father’s arm, heading for the luckiest guy alive, well that day at any rate.

Chapter 2

It was a perfect wedding ceremony on a perfect day, just as it should be for any bride, truly in love with her groom, but Lisa was happy to be outside the church and able to talk openly to Leah again. It had come as a very pleasant surprise that Leah stayed by her side throughout, not that she had any intentions of letting her get far, but holding her hand might be a little too forward, just yet. Lisa was trying to get to grips in the sudden change in her companion, earlier, one second so confident, the next, barely able to get a word out.

There were so many guests they were ushered onto the grass alongside the path and had to balance on the balls of their feet, so that their stilettos didn’t sink into the soft turf. Even so, they appeared to be getting along really well, so long as the topic was neutral, but the moment Lisa asked about her family, Leah closed up and went into her shell.

‘Perhaps it is too soon to be getting personal?’ Lisa mused and steered the conversation back to small-talk.

Have you known Cynthia long? I’m surprised we haven’t met before – I know a lot of her friends. Lisa enquired.

Believe it or not, we are distant cousins.

Why wouldn’t I believe it – you are not in the habit of lying are you? Lisa smiled as she said it, but assumed Leah was referring to her own obvious ethnicity.

My dad and her dad are cousins and great friends also. Dad’s out of the country at the moment, so I am here as family representative. Look, I’m sorry if I seemed to shut you out when you asked about my family earlier – it’s complicated. Leah at least told her that much.

I didn’t mean to pry, but I guess I have just got a big mouth!

Such a pretty one at that. Again, Leah blushed, as she said it, making her seem even more attractive, mysterious almost.

Lisa couldn’t help herself, You don’t exhibit any signs of being a lesbian – you hide it well.

"I have always believed I am straight and the right man, just hasn’t appeared yet, but then we met and I knew something is definitely off with my theory. But honestly, I am very shy with no experience, sexual or otherwise and if there is to be anything between us, it will have to develop slowly, or I might run away, scared of getting in too deep. I hope that makes some kind of sense to you – I do like you!"

Like is good and patience is my middle name! Lisa tried to sound confident and assured, but it was mainly for her own benefit.

She had never been able to wait for anything, but maybe Leah was special enough to help her see it through to a mutually suitable conclusion? There was certainly a connection there and given that Leah felt the same was a good sign, hopefully.

The reception was next door to the church and appeared to be a lavish affair, with tables beautifully dressed and every seat decorated with a sash of white and blue. They were both wrapped up in events as they unfolded, with Cynthia spotting them and thanking them for coming. Lisa cheek-kissed her long-time friend and complimented her appearance as well as offering congratulations, Leah appeared too shy to follow suit, but did manage to congratulate her too. A quick recce and a swift change of place cards, and Lisa ensured that they would be seated together.

After the meal and speeches, the DJ took charge of proceedings and the dancing began.

Will you dance with me? I don’t want the awkwardness of having to refuse to dance with any of the boys, should they ask, when they have finished drinking.

Well, you certainly look a catch in that dress, it really suits you!

I thought so too and it appears to be working. You look absolutely stunning in your dress. Is it pure silk – it’s got class whilst mine just says come and get me?

Given that most of the men were propping up the bar this early, the dance-floor was a sea of women in their finery – the younger ones in particular, so Leah was easily persuaded to dance with Lisa, two girls, almost a couple, hidden in plain sight, blending in delightfully with the wedding bash.

Lisa mused, ‘She looks so gorgeous, how on earth am I not going to kiss her, any second?’

Leah, meantime was pondering to herself, ‘Will I be able to keep her interest if I don’t give her some encouragement?’

And now for some oldies, slow ballads that might encourage the rest of the guests onto the floor! The DJ announced.

Shall we sit and catch our breath? Leah suggested.

Lisa was happy to continue dancing, welcoming the opportunity to gaze at her companion without it seeming intrusive, but decided not to push it and followed her new friend.

It’s such a pleasant evening, how about a stroll outside to get some air? Lisa suggested.

Fine unless you want to get a drink first?

No, I’m good thanks, unless you want one?

Leah responded, No, I’m good too.

I came in my car, so I won’t be drinking tonight. Hey you came by taxi didn’t you – I could give you a lift home if you like.

How do you know it won’t be out of your way? Leah smiled.

You could live at the North Pole and it wouldn’t be out of my way!

I see! I better accept then, hadn’t I? her face beamed.

When they returned to the dance floor later, Lisa led the way and held her hand out for Leah, who accepted it, feeling a surge of warmth shooting up her arm as she did so. As with all happy occasions, the time seemed whizz past in a blur of pleasant experiences and some guests were making a move for home.

Do you think we might slip away un-noticed soon? Leah enquired sheepishly.

Normally Lisa would have responded with some innuendo, but chose not to for some reason and suggested they buttonhole the bride before they leave. Cynthia was circulating among the guests and heading in their general direction.

Hey Cyn, great party. How are you holding up?

Running on pure adrenalin, I think. Hi again Leah – I’m glad you have met my friend, she’s the best.

Lisa could tell that she was okay if a little well-oiled. If you can’t have a good drink on your wedding day, then, when can you?

Just wanted to let you know we will be off soon – I’m giving Leah a lift. Did you know she lives near the North Pole?

Either it didn’t register with Cynthia or she simply didn’t hear – the DJ was turning the volume up a little every half an hour. She thanked them both again, for coming before moving on to the next table.

Half an hour later, they slipped discreetly away to the car park.

Chapter 3

The static between them was so great, that given the right circumstances Lisa might have risked a tentative kiss – Leah’s olive black eyes seemed to be drawing her in... But they both noticed simultaneously that the car parked directly in front of them, began to shudder and roll on its suspension with some kind of mechanical rhythm, almost as if subject to some outside force – an earth tremor, maybe? All the glass was misted over and then the disturbance became clear, as the maid of honour exited the car looking around sheepishly to see if she had been observed, straightening her bridesmaid dress and her hair. The best man followed post-haste.

Our accidental witnesses had slunk down in their seats not wanting to make the scene anymore embarrassing than it already was and appear to have gone un-noticed. Even though their faces were practically touching below the dashboard, neither of them could supress a fit of the giggles as the hapless pair disappeared back into the reception, but the laughter killed the moment that had almost destroyed Lisa’s earlier ‘patient’ claim.

The laughter that had blossomed from their giggles endured most of the journey to Leah’s home, which happened to be conveniently along Lisa’s route home.

Do you only do weddings, or are other outings permitted? Lisa enquired still smiling as the car pulled to a gentle halt at the prescribed address, Especially as I know where you live now.

I might be tempted – what did you have in mind? Leah planted a huge smile on her already beautiful face.

A meal together perhaps – presumably you eat, although you only picked at your dinner today? Their joviality made everything that much easier to ask.

Okay, I’ll ring you! Leah opened the passenger door and slid gracefully from her seat.

You’ll need my number then! Lisa followed her companion to the pavement outside her home.

Having exchange numbers, she was tempted to try a casual cheek kiss good-night, but Leah extended her hand for a handshake farewell, which Lisa grudgingly accepted, remembering her companion’s advance warning of taking things steady. Lisa didn’t have rules, as such, she even occasionally had sex on a first date – it all depended upon the circumstances. A kiss was almost a given, but somehow tonight’s circumstances gave her a warm glow of anticipation, for next time, or the time after. Lisa knew she wanted to do this right as she had great hopes for the two of them.

I’ll keep my phone on until you call! Lisa stepped into her car and zoomed away.

When she arrived home, she could hardly believe how high she was and all on one glass of Champagne to toast the happy couple. It was almost a sign, that she didn’t need to get ‘merry’ to have a wonderful time. Even she thought,

‘This is something new!’

In an ideal world the phone would ring now, and they would talk way into the night, but it’s not ideal yet, not until...

When the phone did ring, Lisa almost jumped out of her skin and sure enough the caller I/D showed it was Leah.

Wow! You’re keen! She couldn’t help herself, the words just erupted from her mouth before her brain engaged.

"Well, I did have a great time with you tonight, but that is not