I woke the next day to find she’d gone.
Much to my disappointment. I didn’t know if this was like the other day when she’d left or if this was just because she had to leave.
It was Monday. It was ten a.m. I was supposed to meet Pa and The Four at noon. I had to see Ava first though. Definitely had to see her first, or else I’d be cranky from the anxiety for the rest of the day.
I went to the restaurant, where I found her talking with her friend Kelly. Like the other day, Kelly saw me first.
I’d never met Kelly properly even though we’d been in Ava’s life for years.
Ava looked over her shoulder when Kelly pointed me out and gave me a coy smile. Instead of hanging back like I would have normally, I thought I’d go over and introduce myself.
Both women looked surprised.
“Hi.” Kelly gave me a pleasant but nervous smile. “I’m Kelly.” She put out her hand to shake mine.
“I know.” I glanced at Ava, who was looking me over with interest. “I hear you make the best cupcakes.”
She gasped and started laughing. “You told him that?” she asked Ava.
“They are very good. I’m just spreading the word.” Ava chuckled.
“Well, now I’ll have to make a batch.”
“Good thing I mentioned it, then.” I gave her a curt nod. “I’m Claudius Morientz.”
She gave me a pointed look. “I think everyone knows that.”
I smirked, knowing what she meant. It didn’t take long before I walked into anywhere for people to recognize me and give me that look. Sometimes it was a look of respect. Other times it was fear.
“Well, now you heard it from me.”
“I appreciate that.”
I knew the power of friendship, and if there was any reservation Kelly had of me, she’d soon tell Ava. Didn’t want to risk that.
“Do you mind if I borrow Ava for a minute?”
“Nope, she’s all yours.” Kelly moved away with a smile on her face.
I turned to focus on Ava, who was already looking at me.
“Is it okay that I’m here?” I didn’t want to assume.
“Mmmm hmmm.” She gave me a sassy smile and tilted her head to the side, allowing the ends of her ponytail to brush over her shoulder.
I didn’t feel that tension between us, so I leaned forward and kissed her briefly.
“Go out with me tomorrow night.” I pressed my nose to hers.
“You’re asking me out?” She giggled.
“Yes.”
“And why tomorrow? You taking some other girl out tonight?” She tried to back away, but I caught her arm.
“Tonight, you’re coming home with me. I’ll pick you up at six. First, we’ll go look at the building on the east side together and you can accept my offer, and then you can talk about New York. Then I’ll eat you.” Couldn’t help it. That was me.
She giggled and gave me a bright smile. “Okay. I can do that. Can you stay for lunch?”
