As a biologist by education, I subscribe to empiricism. Knowing that, you might be surprised to learn that I also wholeheartedly believe in magic.
It’s not the kind that defies the laws of physics. This type of magic is the kind we make ourselves.
When a home cook carefully garnishes a bowl of soup before setting it in front of someone they love, that’s an act of magic. When a host lights a candle before a guest arrives simply because it makes the room feel more inviting, it’s more than just good hospitality:
Magic happens whenever we add intention to the mundane.
I enjoy nourishing people. That instinct finds its way into the food I make, the essays I write, and how I prepare for the people who choose to share time with me. It's one of the ways I experience a little worldly magic. When those around me feel comfortable and cared for, I feel at my most powerful. It’s as much a part of my temperament as it is a craft I’ve cultivated over many years, many homes, and many different kinds of relationships.
No two visits with me unfold the same way; I don't follow a formula or a script. That said, I hope the following letter gives you a glimpse into what it’s like to spend time with me, the kinds of moments I find pleasurable, and the magic with which I like to imbue our time together.
Before You Arrive
Whether you join me in my space, host us in yours, or we start our date at a restaurant, movie theater, or mini golf course, I love the ritual of preparing for our visit.
I don't prepare in order to impress (though I don't mind if I do). Instead, my preparations are an act of care towards my guest and myself, especially because of the pleasurable anticipation that builds inside me.
Before a date, I like to give myself plenty of time. I might soak in the bath until my skin is silky soft, smooth on a creamy lotion, and give myself a few quiet minutes to let go of the day. If I’m hosting, I’ll turn my attention to the room: fluffing our pillows, turning down the lights, and almost certainly lighting a candle or two.
I like wearing things that make me feel like a beautifully wrapped present begging to be opened: woolen thigh-high socks, satin lingerie, textures and fabrics that are as fun to touch as they are to remove.
By the time we say hello, I’ve already been looking forward to you. Our date may have only just begun, but my anticipation has been building for much longer. In those first few moments together, if you pay attention, you’ll feel it too.
Now That You’re Here…
You might notice a hint of sandalwood perfume in the air, the glow of my soft skin, or the warm, crinkled sheets where I’ve been lounging before your arrival.
The table is set. Now our only task is to enjoy each other's company.
We might spend our entire visit curled up together in private, or venture out for a meal, a little adventure, or something we've both been looking forward to. I enjoy conversation, affection, playfulness, and physical intimacy, and I especially love when there's room for all of them. The time we share is ours to enjoy in whatever way feels natural to us both.
As we settle in, I notice subtle details, like what makes you relax, or the moment when one of us inches a little closer. Sometimes conversation keeps carrying us away. Other times, the desire to touch each other becomes increasingly difficult to ignore. That particular chemistry tells us where to go next.
I love that feeling of eagerness and subtle magnetism that draws us in for more.
Mutual pleasure is my North Star. Let me show you what melts me, what keeps me warm, and what excites me, and what does the same for you.
Afterglow
A sip of water. Messy hair. Smudged mascara. Laughing. Another kiss before we figure out where our clothes went. Just because we’ve reached the climax of our time together doesn't mean things are suddenly over. Let's enjoy every last moment together.
Once We’ve Parted Ways
If you've left a good impression, I won't forget you the moment we say goodbye.
Maybe you've recommended a great restaurant, podcast, or new album to listen to. That's the kind of thing that finds its way into my life. Maybe you’ve touched me in a way I found particularly exciting. Our visit may already have me looking forward to next time, or maybe we shared a fleeting moment that I'll look back on fondly.
I think that's one of the loveliest things about sharing time with another person. We never know exactly what we'll take away from the experience, or which little moments will stay with us.
And perhaps that's a little bit of magic in itself.
If you'd like to discover what an afternoon together might hold, I'd love to hear from you. Tell me what you have in mind, and let's see what kind of magic we might make together.
