“For someone so reserved . . . it might be.”
“When you’re in love with a man, don’t you tell him?”
“Not necessarily.”
“What exactly would be stopping you?”
“Fear,” Mia replied.
“Fear of what?”
“Of scaring him off.”
“Oh, God, it’s all so complicated! So what are you supposed to do, what should you say or not say when you’re in love with somebody?”
“Maybe it’s best to hold off, to wait awhile.”
“Wait for what? Until it’s too late?”
“Until it’s . . . not too early.”
“And just how do I figure that out? How do I know the time is right?”
“When you no longer feel any doubt, I suppose.”
“Has that ever happened to you? Being free of doubt?”
“Yes, on occasion.”
“And that’s when you told him that you loved him?”
“Yes.”
“And he said that he loved you?”
“Yes.”
Mia’s face darkened, and Paul noticed.
“I’m sorry! What a jackass. You’re fresh out of a relationship, and here I am prying open old wounds. That was a selfish thing to do.”
“Not really. It was quite touching, actually. If more men would find the courage to show their sensitive side, things could be so different.”
“You think I should reply to her?”
“I think you’re going to see her soon, and when she’s with you, she’ll fall under your spell once more.”
“If I’m being ridiculous, you can tell me.”
“Not at all. You’re being sincere. Whatever you do, don’t change that.”
Paul spotted a little refreshment stand just ahead of them.
“Hey. How would you like a waffle with Nutella?”
“Sure, why not,” Mia said with a sigh.
He led her over to the stand. He bought two waffles and handed the first one to Mia.
