We exchanged numbers two days ago, after I took him out for brunch when he picked up the new hearing aids. But neither of us had reached out since.
Until now.
Lucas:I have a tight schedule
with work and school. I do not
know when I’ll have time to
Teach you ASL
I read it twice, slowly. He thinks he can slip away. He thinks excuses will put space between us. I almost laugh at that; it seems he doesn’t know me at all.
Alex:Quit the job.
I send it without hesitation, sliding the phone back into my pocket. A move that says more than the words themselves. I can feel Viktor watching me, that grin tugging at his mouth again. But I don’t give him the satisfaction of a glance.
Because Lucas just lit a fuse, and I don’t let go of what I decide is mine.
* * *
The steak hisses in the pan, the scent of searing meat curling into the air. I stand over it, watching the edges brown as the butter melts and coats the steak in a golden glaze.
Do I wanna know? Hozier’s version plays in the built-in speaker.
My phone buzzes where it’s resting on the counter. I don’t look at it right away. I flip the steak, listening to the sharp sizzle, watching the fat bubble. Only when the steak is perfect and resting on the side do I wipe my hands and check the screen.
It’s from Mike, already telling me he’s parked outside the cafe Lucas works in. I shoot him a thumbs up and go back to Lucas’ texts.
Lucas:Stop ignoring me.
I can’t just quit my job.
I let the words hang there, watching them on the screen like they’re some kind of challenge. I dry my hands, pick up the phone, and type back.
Alex:What time do you get
off work today?
Lucas:By 8, why?
Alex:Good. My driver is already
there to pick you up.
There’s a pause. I can almost picture the confusion on his face, the way his brows will furrow, his lips parting in silent disbelief. The thought stirs something in me. Something sharp. Something hungry.
Lucas:What?
Alex:A black Range Rover is waiting
outside the café to bring you here, Lucas.
My doorman will send you up to me when
you arrive.
Lucas:What? What do you mean?
