I write these stories for a few reasons. Fun, of course. To explore different types of ideas, taboos, and people. Most of all, though, I write these stories to get off.

I share these stories on the off-chance someone else finds them tantalizing.

Tamara’s story, like all of those in my still-in-progress Carmel series, in part explore the tension between sexuality and religious culture. I do not intentionally have any particular religion or denomination in mind, and therefore use generic terms such as “The Book,” “The Creator,” and “The Church.” Any direct correlation between particulars in this story and those of any one belief system is unintentional.

Tamara’s story will be published serially. The Prologue is mostly to provide background and context, and contains few salacious moments. If you want to get to the sex, feel free to skim through or skip it.

All characters involved are over the age of 18, and fully consent to the events presented herein.

Tamara Johnson stepped out of the bathroom, clean, wearing a light night dress which muted her shape. Flipping the switch, she plunged the room into near-darkness, illuminated only by light from under the exterior door and the green charging indicator of the air filter, which whirred its blanketing noise.

She could not see her husband’s face, but knew he was there, ready for her. It was Saturday. Sliding into the bed next to him, she felt his weight shift, his nude body over her. She did not remove her night dress. Gripping the sheets, she felt Eric enter her with a slow, gentle caution that she almost appreciated.

He had to work himself in and out for a minute or two before she was slick enough to accommodate him. With his face buried in her shoulder, Eric kissed her neck as the rhythm of his thrusting gently rocked the bed. Within a few minutes, his hot breath on her skin began to come quickly, shallower, until he stopped thrusting with a grunt.

Rolling off of her, Eric breathed deeply for another minute as Tamara closed her legs, keeping his release from running out.

“Thank you,” her husband said. “You’re so beautiful,” though she was a mere shadow in the wan light.

“Thank you,” Tamara responded, feeling that she should.

“Your turn?” Eric asked without moving.

“I’m fine,” Tamara responded. “I’m tired.”

“OK,” Eric said. “Do you want to pray first?”

“You start,” said Tamara.

They recited the litany of their usual bedtime prayers. After, Tamara walked back to the bathroom to wipe Eric’s seed from between her legs, and put on a clean pair of comfortable panties. When she returned to bed, Eric had rolled over and fallen asleep.

…

The next morning, Eric had risen early to make Tamara’s favorite pancakes, with bacon and eggs. He usually did this Sunday morning — Tamara wasn’t sure if it was because it was the Creator’s day, or if his mood was due to their scheduled Saturday intimacy.

Tamara admired his handsome features — the dark tousle of his hair, the depth of his brown eyes, his warm smile. Her husband had an honest face with a button nose and a cleft in his chin. He was sturdy, if not particularly tall or broad. Reassuring.

They talked through breakfast, Tamara remembering why she had married this man as he animatedly laid out plans for the week, asked her questions, entertained her. His eyes danced when he looked at her. Though he hadn’t been able to see her the previous night when he called her beautiful, he wasn’t lying. In truth, Tamara was the most beautiful woman Eric had ever seen.

She had a delicate face with deep blue eyes. Her blond, wavy hair, now gathered in a scarf, fell past her shoulders. Her curves were singularly enticing, with her ample bosom wide hips, strong thighs, and shapely rear. Though, her outwardly chaste and modest nature prevented Eric from using such words to describe her.

Her skin was soft and pale, hands and feet dainty, limbs feminine but strong. When it was time to get ready for church, Tamara went to their bathroom alone and quickly changed out of her calf-length nightgown and into a green dress which went past her ankles. It had long sleeves, and a white under layer that covered her collarbone. It was chaste and modest, though the flowing skirt made Tamara feel feminine.

The arrived for the Sunday School hour at the Church of Carmel — Tamara parting with Eric to go to a Book study with her friends, all of whom were still unmarried. Before entering the room of her study, she glanced down the hall to a different class, comprising several of the married women in the church.

Tamara looked down the hall curiously. She hadn’t really connected with any of those women yet — she felt like she should, as a young wife could use friendship and advice from more experienced women — but every time one of the sweet women invited her to join their class, something stopped her.

Looking at them now, they seemed so different from her. More confident, yes. But there was something else.

They seemed more comfortable with each other than Tamara had ever felt with her friends. Their dresses sat on their bodies a different way; they seemed brighter somehow.

Shaking her head, Tamara resolved to try and introduce herself again to them next week. Maybe next month. Eric had seamlessly fit in with the married men, though he hadn’t been attached to the single men’s group all that much.

The pastor passed by the married ladies’ room, enthusiastically greeting them individually and intimately. Tamara entered her own classroom, with the girls she knew better, all dressed like her.

…

On Monday, Tamara was doing laundry, carefully sorting through the colors and whites, when she heard a loud pop and a sound like rushing water. She paused, brow furrowed. It was rushing water.

She rushed out to the garage, and saw hot water gushing from the old gas water heater. Quickly, she called Eric, explaining the situation to her husband in a panic. Eric was handy, and he guided her through shutting off the water heater, and turning off the gas. With a sigh, Tamara thanked him and hung up, and set herself to the task of cleaning.

When Eric returned that afternoon, he inspected the old unit.

“I think it’s done. I don’t think I can fix this,” he said with a sigh. “I don’t know how we’ll pay for a replacement. Money’s tight until I move up at the firm, pay off my student loans…”

Tamara pursed her lips. Eric worked so hard, and had a promising career as a lawyer. Problem was, he’d only just started that career. Six months ago, they had their wedding, and the week after, he started as a junior attorney at Stanley & Malone. The hours had been brutal, and the pay meager, but the promise of promotion was there.

Promises wouldn’t pay off the loans, though. Or fix the water heater.

“Maybe we should go to the church? They help people with money sometimes…” Tamara suggested meekly.

Eric hung his head. “Maybe you’re right…I just hate asking, you know.”

“We should at least talk to them,” Tamara said. “At the very least, they’re wise men. Didn’t one of them…Elder Judd, I think, work as a partner at your firm for awhile?”

“Yeah, he helped me with my interview,” Eric said. “You’re right. I’ll call the church, see if they can meet with us.”

…

“Brother Eric, welcome. And welcome, Tamara.” said Elder Walter.

Seated in a semi-circle of fold-out chairs next to him were the four elders on the Church of Carmel’s Mercy committee — Elder Rick, Elder Mac, and Elder Judd.

These men had agreed to meet with Eric regarding a request for help from the church’s mercy fund — a fund used to help those in the community or in the congregation when needs arose.

“Thank you for seeing us today, I…Well…”

Elder Judd smiled kindly. Eric had already explained the situation over the phone to him.

“Now, don’t feel embarrassed, Eric. Everyone needs a little help now and then. I’ve already filled the others in on what’s going on. We just need to confirm the details, see what you need and what the church may be able to help with.

Eric quickly went through the summary of events regarding the water heater, touching on student loans and his new job already creating a financial pinch. All the while, Tamara listened quietly, eyes mostly downcast. Though, when she would glance up, she would usually find the eyes of one of the Elders fixated on her.

Most often, she noticed the attention of Elder Judd. He was a tall and broad man, in his early forties. His black hair was brushed with grey at the temples. He had a strong face and good shoulders, and seemed fit and energetic for his age. Piercing but sympathetic blue eyes quietly evaluating.

“…so, really, I’m in a little bind trying to cover bills after paying for the new water heater. I don’t think we need much, Elders, maybe just some help covering utilities for this month would give us some breathing room.”

Elder Judd chuckled knowingly.

“I remember when I started at Stanley & Malone about twenty years ago. They sure are stingy with their starting pay. But don’t worry, young man, if you stick around a little while, prove yourself a little bit, they promote quickly. Why, after only twenty years, I’m basically retired. I am blessed to live a comfortable life only taking on consulting contracts when it suits me.”

Eric smiled a little thinly, and said, “I’m working hard, sir. I know it will pay off eventually.”

“That’s the spirit,” said Judd with a smile. “What do the rest of you think, men? Any questions?”

Elder Mac, a shorter, stouter man than Judd, squinted curiously at the couple.

“You two were just married, weren’t you? How’s married life? Still in the honeymoon phase, I bet? Hah!”

Tamara and Eric both nodded in response. Tamara answered the Elder’s question: “We were married in the church six months ago, Elder. Your wife, Margaret, was so helpful with the decorations. Please tell her hello for me.”

Elder Rick, staring wistfully into the distance, said “Ah, I remember when my Ruth and I were newlyweds. We barely left the house that first year!” He laughed.

Tamara colored a little at the uncouth statement from the spiritual leader. The young women of the church had learned to be modest and chaste. However, the comment seemed to go over Eric’s head.

“How are you finding it, being a husband, Eric?” Judd asked in a more serious tone.

“Oh, uh, well, of course I’m happy to be a husband, Elder. Tamara is a wonderful wife. She’s encouraging and kind, patient with me and my work, takes good care of things while I’m away. Hopefully we’ll have a family of our own, soon.”

“Perhaps so,” replied the dark-haired Elder. “But don’t wish the time away, Eric. A husband should savor his wife. I made sure to show love to my Jill every day, even working the hours of a young attorney. The Creator did not bless us with children, but that foundation still serves us well each day.”

Tamara, coloring more, began to feel uncomfortable. She wasn’t sure how to feel about these men talking about her being “savored.” They seemed so…forward. Inwardly, she chastised herself. These were congregation leaders, and wise men.

“Yes, Elder Judd. I see…” Eric said, not sure how to respond. The truth was, her certainly did not “savor” her every day.

Eric praised her and complemented her every day, but her never pushed for anything from her. Hardly even asked. Though this had suited Tamara initially, given her proclivities, she had started to wonder whether they were…normal.

“Anyway, this is all a tangent. We can certainly help you with the utilities this month, Eric. Just call the church office with your account information later. We’ll discuss and get back to you if there’s anything else we can do,” said Elder Mac.

Eric straightened, “Oh, thank you, Elder Mac! That will be wonderful. I really can’t thank all of you enough,” he said, rising to shake their hands.

“Thank the Creator, Eric. It is his money. He provides all good things for his followers to enjoy,” said Elder Judd with a smile. Though speaking to Eric, he was looking at Tamara. She noticed, as is for the first time, that he was singularly handsome.

…

The afternoon of the same day came an unexpected knock at the door. Still cleaning the dishes in her modest blue dress and white apron, Tamara remained in the kitchen while Eric answered. The front door being near in their small house, Tamara heard the door open, then a pause.

“Elder Judd, hi! Um, would you like to come in?”

“Yes, brother Eric, if it’s not a bad time, thank you.”

Pausing her washing, and rinsing then drying her hands, Tamara gathered some glasses and few cookies from the jar.

“Thank you again for talking to us today. Would you like to sit down? The living room is right this way,” said Eric. Not that he needed to — Elder Judd could see the living room from the front door.

“Thank you, Eric, and that’s actually what I’m here to discuss,” Elder Judd said, lowering himself onto Eric’s armchair. Eric sat on their couch, perched on the edge.

“I’m sorry to drop by unannounced, but I know time is of the essence for you, given your situation…ah, hello, Tamara.”

“Good evening Elder Judd,” Tamara responded with a bright, wide smile befitting the welcome of a church elder. “Thank you for visiting today. I made some cookies yesterday afternoon if you would like any,” Tamara said, setting down the try on the coffee table. “Can I offer you something to drink?”

“No, thank you, sweetheart. I was just saying to your husband that I’m sorry for this unplanned visit.”

“No need to apologize,” Tamara said sweetly, lowering herself to perch next to Eric. “Anyone from church is always welcome.”

“I see,” said Elder Judd, approvingly. “You do your husband credit, Tamara, welcoming guests with food and drink. Your beauty makes your home even warmer. Tell me, though, do you always hide your beauty in such dress, even in your husband’s house?”

Here, Judd indicated the cornflower blue floor-length dress with half-length sleeves and a white under layer covering up to her neck. “You weren’t expecting company, were you?”

Taken aback, Tamara answered: “The Book teaches that a woman should always be modest, doesn’t it?”

“I should hope not!” Judd answered with a good-natured laugh. “Unmarried women, sure. But a wife should be more…comfortable with her husband. Inviting.”

Seeing Tamara’s discomfort, Judd pressed. “If I were your husband, I’d ask that you not greet me as though we were in the church sanctuary,” Judd chuckled. “Have you ever brought this up, Eric?”

“No, Elder Judd…I never thought, you see…”

“Yes, I see.” Interjected Judd. “Do you like your wife to be dressed so modestly at all times, or would you prefer for her to change when you’re at home?”

Bemused, unbalanced, Eric replied: “I…want her to be comfortable…but yes, I wouldn’t mind her being a little more comfortable, you know…”

Turning his sharp eyes on Tamara, Judd said directly: “Your husband wishes you to change, Tamara. Why don’t you go put on something a little less chaste.”

Tamara felt discomforted by the Elder’s forwardness, but she knew he had the task of shepherding the congregation. Perhaps he commonly gave this advice to couples? Could she really go change now, with the Elder still there? Maybe he would leave soon.

More, the direct request…though it wasn’t a request, was it? Stirred something deep inside her. Something she hadn’t known could stir. Tamara found herself wanting to respond, to fulfill.

She looked to Eric, wondering what he would say. He did not correct the Elder. He did not say anything. He merely looked at her with an expression that she couldn’t tell was resignation or expectation.

Though this conflict within her lasted only a moment, Tamara felt the time draw out. Without further hesitation, she stood and said simply, “It would be my pleasure, Elder Judd…husband,” she added, looking at each in turn.

Turning to go, the Judd’s voice faded behind her. He was speaking to Eric now, and she just heard him saying faintly, “No need to be discomposed, son. I advise many of our young married men. Being a husband takes practice…”

Entering their shared closet, Tamara slipped off the modest, covering dress, placing it in the hamper to be washed. She did not remove the scarf covering her hair.

Feeling the air around the skin of her arms and legs, she began to select a calf-length sleeveless dress with a collar, but…would Elder Judd see this as defiance of his suggestion? Would he send her back again?

Trepidatiously, Tamara slid the bulk of her hung clothes to the side, revealing a couple of neglected items at the very end of the rod, hidden behind the lip of the door. Lifting the hanger, she pulled a new dress over her head.

…

Though they were actually quite warm, Tamara felt the lamps of the living room like spotlights aimed at her. Both men turned toward her as she re-entered: Eric looked surprise, and Judd looked…pleased? Hungry?

With his white-toothed smile, Judd exclaimed “Still modest, I see, but certainly an improvement. My, but you are lovely, Tamara. Eric is a lucky man.”

Tamara’s dress with a similar cornflower blue as before, but sleeveless, with one-inch straps.

The scoop neck was still fairly conservative, though on Tamara’s well-endowed frame, showed the smallest hint of cleavage. The bust and waist fit tightly, and though the skirt flowed, it was light, and rested over her generous hips, revealing Tamara’s uncommon hourglass figure.

The hem of the skirt fell to about mid-thigh, showing some portion of Tamara’s strong, shapely legs.

Eric’s mouth was open in surprise. “You…haven’t worn that since our honeymoon, Tammy. You look beautiful.”

Picking at her cuticles, Tamara smiled faintly. “Thank you, husband…Elder Judd.”

“There now, Eric, doesn’t your home feel that much more warm? Tamara, don’t you feel more comfortable? Judd asked enthusiastically.

“Yes,” both answered.

“Can I get anyone anything else before I sit down again?” Tamara asked, changing the subject.

“No, we’re alright, thank you,” said Elder Judd.

Tamara sat, careful to keep her legs together. Elder Judd continued, picking up the thread from earlier.

“Well, as I was about to explain to Eric, your request today has been…well, the Creator has put it on my heart. You may know that I have been blessed in many ways, and it is part of my duty as Elder to pass blessings onto others. I’m here to offer some help to your situation personally, beyond what the elders may decide to do about your electric bills.”

Tamara sat quietly, apprehensive.

“That’s very generous of you, Elder Judd,” said Eric. “I don’t think we need much to get by, just this month’s power bill…but it’s very kind of you to think of us.”

“You mentioned you’re working hard down at my old firm, didn’t you, Eric?”

“Yes, sir, I’ve been there for about six moths now.”

Elder Judd smiled a white-toothed smile. “I remember my own early days as an attorney. Low man on the totem pole. Always busy, right? Not quite making the big bucks.”

Eric, a little unbalanced, said “Yes, the hours aren’t great, but the pay will get better the more I learn, the longer I’m there…you know, I just need to put in my time first.”

“At least you have such a lovely wife to come home to. She must quite the cure for the stress of a young attorney.” Judd’s white-toothed smile returned.

Eric, shifting uncomfortably, looked at Tamara, who wouldn’t meet his eye.

Reading their expressions, Judd’s smile turned slightly, and he pressed on. “Still though, it isn’t easy. And with law school being what it is today…whew…” Judd blew out his cheeks, “you must be ready to finish off those student loans, eh, son?”

“Of course, but in time, it will all work out. I have faith,” Eric said with a mechanical smile.