The Caramel Diaries: The Stratagem

The Stratagem

Its 5:30 PM and Marzipan is in his recently bought CAV GT40 modeled on the classic Ford GT40 race car. His ability to drive has been almost impaired, with one hand on the wheel and the other hand while shifting gears, is holding a flask filled with his favorite bourbon. The signs of stress is written all over him, the area around his eyes puffed up and dark, and eyes that could speak of horrors. This is the defining moment for Marzipan, the decision has been taken. A man with strong convictions in his beliefs, yet weak at heart. Depression was his best friend.

Marzipan has always knew what he wanted, but he always caved in to pressure by his friends. His behaviors are erratic at times and very aggressive. His inability to come to terms with his own personality has created a different side to him. Now a reckless person on the street, a danger to others. The speedometer reading 180 kmh and the sound of the engine roaring behind him only to be muted by loud hardcore trance. He downshifts as he approaches the traffic light on Damascus St. Under the third ring road, until the car comes to halt.

Looking down to the passenger seat, he finds his phone blinking. He has not been answering any phones lately, but tonight he is waiting for one phone call that will change his life. A paradigm shift. He looks at his phone. This is it. The cars behind started honking, the traffic light is green. The only good think that he did today, was to use a Bluetooth earset. His potential danger to drivers in the streets are alleviated a little by a small piece of technology. He quickly clicks the button on his earpeice to pickup the call, shifts into first gear and releases the clutch, only to leave a big cloud of burnt rubber smoke behind him.

"Hey, its done just like you told me" a soft feminine voice told Marzipan. "Good" he says it with as if he had expected it. "well I guess you know where to find us" she resolvedly said. Marzipan taking a deep breath "You just do what you have to do and I will stick to my end of the bargain, but if you..." Marzipan is suddenly interrupted by her "Hey, I don't wanna hear it ok? just come over" she drops the line. They had a special relationship that was compromised by a single event. An event that allowed Marzipan to finally get access to what he wants.

He turns left on second ring road and revs up the engine to quickly get to his destination. Tonight I will get what I want, I wont let it go, not this time.


To be continued........

P.S. I found out that there is a similar name to this series which is a Japanese anime called Caramel Diary. Just incase you thought I stole the name, I did not :) She doesn't even look like someone that goes on business trips LOL.








Toasted Almond & White Chocolate Caramel Cheescake

White Chocolate Ganache
1 C. white chocolate chips
2 T. unsalted butter
1 1/2 C. cream
1/3 C. sugar

Crust
15 double graham crackers
1/3 C. dark brown sugar
4 T. unsalted butter

Caramel
1 C. sugar
1/2 C. water
few drops vinegar or lemon juice
1 1/2 T. cornstarch
1/2 C. cream
1 T. unsalted butter

Cheesecake Batter
2 1/2 lbs. cream cheese, very soft
2 1/2 C. sugar
5 eggs
2 t. pure vanilla extract
1 C. toasted almond slivers