“About six years.”
“That’s a long time,” he said.
“It is,” I said.
“Wh—”
“Uh-uh. You got two questions. My turn, and I get two,” I said, cutting him off.
“Ask away.”
“Why did your last relationship end?” I asked.
“She cheated.”
“Mm… I’m sorry,” I said.
“It’s fine. It doesn’t bother me anymore. What’s your next question?” he asked. The aroma from the food made my mouth water.
“Why haven’t you dated anyone since then?” I asked.
“At first it was because I didn’t want to start over again. And then it turned into hooking up. It was safer that way. No explanations or niceties needed.”
I understand that better than he realized.
“Your turn,” I said.
“How did your last relationship end?” he asked.
“I ended it.”
“Do you miss him?” he asked.
“No. I miss having a partner to do life with, but I don’t miss him.”
“That’s good,” he said.
“Is it?” I asked.
“Yes.” He scooped food onto our plates, grabbed a handful of grapes and slices of oranges before placing them decoratively.
“My turn. What do you want from me?” I asked.
“Isn’t it obvious?” he asked.
“Sex?” I asked.
“Well, I look forward to taking you, yes, but that’s not all.”
“What else is there?” I rasped, teetering close to the edge.
“Does it scare you?” he countered as he made his way around the counter with plates in hand. I got up to help, but he stopped me. “I’ll get it. Come sit down.”
I listened. I turned on my heel and followed him. I sat in a chair and waited as he grabbed the rest. An egg white omelet sat on my plate, a handful of breakfast sausages, and fruits. Dane returned a moment later with juice and strawberry crepes dusted in powdered sugar.
“Thank you. Everything looks delicious,” I said.
I popped a grape into my mouth and then cut a piece of the omelet with my fork. I inhaled it. The taste of spinach, tomatoes, and cheese hit my tongue. I groaned. Was that Parmesan melted on top? It was. I moved on to the crepes, scarfing them down with a bit of whipped cream. I did a little dance in my seat; it wasn’t my finest moment, but everything was heavenly. He laughed, and I looked up at him.
