Beard King - An Unforgettable Encounter

Let me share an intriguing tale, one that might lean towards love or animosity. I’ll leave the judgment to you.

Disembarking from the plane, quickly reviewed the itinerary of the evening seminar, mentally sorting the priorities, and hurried my way out. Paced back and forth, searching for the airport greeter, but he was missing, his phone unreachable. Without delay, hailed a cab and soon reached the cottage. 

As someone who balances work with a passion for writing blogs and vlogs, the room’s comfort was a top priority. I had clearly communicated this while making the reservation. However, upon unpacking, things went downhill. There was a puddle of water by the bedside from a leaking A/C, the commode lacked a seat plate and cover, and relentless drilling noise echoed above my room.

To make things even weirder, a pink helium balloon was tied to the dressing table, evoking eerie memories from a horror movie. Wanted to cast it out, but hesitated, recalling a scene from the film where popping the balloon led to the ghost possessing the person who burst it. Hence, was too frightened to even touch it.

Determined to resolve these issues, headed to the reception desk. She resisted the request for room change initially, but when I insisted, she called for a supervisor. 

It was my first encounter with him, though he appeared annoyed by the interruption. He resembled the 15th-century kings, like the ones in our history textbooks, but dressed in modern attire. A dense beard like an emperor with villainous tendencies, eyes the shade of dark honey, thick eyebrows, a fair complexion, broad shoulders with a slight paunch. My mind termed it as a beer belly. 

With an aura of indignation, he absorbed the litany of complaints without interrupting. He instructed the receptionist to assign a person to handle the issues without uttering a word to me. This only heightened my annoyance.

In due course, they arranged a spacious cottage, separated from others by a wall of cypress plants and offered a view of vast forested land. It was beautiful and serene with a touch of earthy vibe. Pleased me immensely that my assertive attitude led to securing a better accommodation. With a sense of contentment, settled onto the plush king-sized bed, reading “The Girl Who Played With Fire”

A while passed, craved coffee. Strolled across the lake, watching the kayaker’s joyful endeavors. They served Hi-Tea in an amphitheater adorned with warli art, which was in stark contrast to the tall trees and clear blue sky. The scene, featuring the setting sun and a gentle breeze, invited me to capture and etch it in my memory.

I grabbed a cup of coffee, nestled in a corner, allowing myself to absorb the surroundings. Something prompted me to look at the far corner. In a blink, I caught sight of the king figure engaged in conversation. At that very moment, his gaze seemed to lock onto mine, or perhaps I imagined.

As darkness settled, decided to explore the vast landscape. Dressed in a comfortable yet chic outfit, ambled around aimlessly. Admiring the environment without focusing on anything specific, relishing the beauty of nature. My eyes kept drawing to the bearded King, who, as part of his job, interacted with guests to ensure their comfort. 

Spotting a swing hanging from a tall tree in a dimly lit area, parked myself. Swinging, gazing at the starry sky, I closed my eyes momentarily in gratitude. Amid this serene moment, felt I heard a voice but dismissed. Yet, the voice persisted, and this time it was clear. “Ma’am, are you comfortable? “He stood at a distance, staring down, cautious not to startle me. I replied affirmatively, and a silent exchange ensued. Something shifted in the air as we remained silent. He came around, right behind, and gently nudged the swing, and walked away, leaving me dazed and tongue-tied.

Spent breakfast in search of something or someone that my heart yearned for but didn’t find. The same feeling persisted during my walk and lunch. As the darkness set, the campfire provided warmth for my body, and the music entertained my mind. The bearded king walked into the campfire canopy, requesting the DJ to dedicate a song. A romantic melody played. I felt that the dedicated song was for me. Seated opposite each other, illuminated by the fire’s glow, our eyes met and lingered. An unspoken connection seemed to flow, mutual and palpable. Amid this thawing ambiance, something within us began to thaw as well. 

A call interrupted him. His reluctance to go seemed evident in his body language. But the departure caused a painful twist inside me. Remained, lost in my thoughts, before eventually returning to the familiar swing. Despite wishing for another encounter, this time without an audience, it never came to fruition.

The day of departure loomed, got dressed in a blue and red floral dress, accentuating my appearance with light makeup and matching accessories. Extended breakfast in hopeful anticipation. 

Feeling heavy headed through the walkway to check out. Just as I was about to leave, there he stood, leaning against a tree, immersed in his phone. Briefly considering a pause, I continued, realizing it was time to move on. However, spotting me, he quickened his pace, approaching me with urgency. Surprised by his quickness, stepped back, fearing he would collide. 

Breathing heavily, aware of my impending departure, fetching for words, after a brief considering pause, he said, “I hope you enjoyed your stay”. Nodded mustering a soft, “Yes, I did,”. 

He carried my luggage. We walked to the reception with thoughts brewing inside our heads. Our strides appeared almost reluctant, radiating a mixture of emotions–a bittersweet sentiment. Our gaze locked with depth, transcending words we wanted to blurt. A warm, prolonged hug enacted within my mind. 

His lips moved. I found myself entranced by them, though the voice didn’t reach my ears. Hidden beneath his beard and mustache, the lips beckoned, almost whispering, “Will you visit again?” for the second time. 

He placed the baggage with his gaze fixed on me. I had to literally tear myself away to settle my bills. When I looked back again, he was nowhere to be found, in a jiffy, he was gone. 

Settling into the car, adjusted the front mirror, hoping to catch a last glimpse. A pang of melancholy struck. Transitioning from one home to another, departing from something precious.

It then struck me–what was his name? Yet, somehow, his name was inconsequential. A smile pursed my lips. In truth, even if I knew his name, would always address him as the “Beard king with a beer belly”. 

Grinning to myself, I cherished the experience, a memory that would endure.

With a deep sigh, I turned up the music and embarked on my journey back home, adding another chapter to my life’s collection of experiences.