“As soon as the sketch is done, let me know. I need to see it.”
“Of course I will.” Scott smiled wickedly. “Maybe your 'old flame'—" he tapped his chest, "—will decide to pay you a visit since you don’t work Mondays.”
“Is that really a good idea? It could kick the stalker into high gear.”
“I think he’s there already, considering his visit to your place earlier today.”
Corey nodded in agreement, as much as he disliked that thought. “Then let’s do it.”
“And get this damned thing over and done with.”
“So you get back to life as you knew it before he came into my life. I’m sure you’d much rather be tracking down drug dealers or whatever.”
“Maybe. That depends.”
“On what?”
Scott winked. “You’ll find out, sooner or later. For now let’s finish dinner. We can actually enjoy it now that he’s come and gone.”
“Says you. I’m still wound up.”
Reaching over, Scott took his hand. “Take a deep breath.”
Corey smiled slightly, looking down at their hands, and did.
“Again.”
“You want me to hyperventilate?”
“Not really. Breathe.”
“I’m breathing, I’m breathing.” He chuckled softly. Now I’m tense for a different reason.
“Good. Now eat, and then I’ll walk you home.”
* * * *
Scott watched the play of emotions cross Corey’s face when he released his hand. Momentary disappointment mixed with a bit of—if he had to put a name to it, he’d have said desire, then relief when he’d said he’d walk him home.
I probably shouldn’t have done that, taking his hand. But he needs to know I’m here for him. Besides that, if I’m going to be honest with myself, I wanted to touch him. I want to hold him and take away his fear, if only for a little while. When this is over…. When it’s over, we probably will go our separate ways. He’s too afraid of relationships, and I doubt I have a chance in hell of changing that, no matter what I might wish to the contrary.
I think Scott does have a chance
ReplyDeleteI suspect he does.
Delete