“No.” Art swallows hard. “It’s a daily struggle. The ironic thing is that it makes me pretty good at my job. I have a knack for reading body language and being aware of what’s going on around me.”
“You’re amazing.” I stare in wonder at the man I’ve been lucky enough to spend the day with.
We sit in one another’s embrace for a while, watching people walk, jog, and cycle past us. I never thought I’d be one to share so much of myself with anyone. Art is different, however. He’s a friend, but something deep inside of me tells me he’s also the man I’ve been waiting for. It’s almost like how a salmon or a sea turtle knows exactly where it wasborn and where it needs to go to lay eggs. I’ve never had such a strong gut reaction to another human. I just know that with him, I’ll always be safe. In time, I can only hope this turns into something more. Like love.
“Ah blast, it’s nearly two. Angela is going to ring me before I know it.” He checks his watch and unravels himself from me. We both stand and stretch. “There was one more thing I’d hoped to do with you, but if we go now, we might not have much time there.”
“Oh, what is it?”
His lips twitch. “Do I have it right that you’ve never been to a proper amusement park?”
“No, I haven’t.”
“A carnival?”
“No.” I shake my head.
“Well, then, this needs to be sorted out. I’m taking you to Hanayashiki. It’s Japan’s oldest amusement park. It may not be Disneyland, but it has some rides, games, and will give you a taste of what it’s like. If you enjoy it, next time, we’ll do the real thing.”
I chew on my lip. I want to do this, but I’m worried about Art. “Won’t there be an awful lot of people there?”
“Probably, but today’s adventure can be our little secret. Besides, I’ll be there to protect you if anything happens.”
I rise up onto my toes and wrap my arms around his neck. “Thank you.” My lips brush against his, melting into his mouth as I take in the moment. Art’s kisses are meant to be enjoyed and savored.
Twenty-One
Iarrive home Sunday evening and promptly fall asleep. By Tuesday, I’m still a zombie, but a functional one. I sleep much later than normal and take a lazy day, unpacking and catching up on emails and returning calls. By Wednesday, I’m back to normal.
Over the past few days, Art has constantly been on my mind, but I’ve purposefully gone out of my way to avoid him. We had such a magical time in Japan. However, now that we’re back, I know we can’t avoid talking about what our future is going to look like much longer.
I send a text to Jenna, hoping she’ll be able to inspire some confidence in me. As it stands, I’m being a giant chicken.
Alice
I did it.
Jenna
You did what? You’re being too cryptic. A girl needs more information to go on.
Alice
I told him.
Jenna
Him who?
Alice
Art.
Jenna
Oh. Oh! What happened?!
Alice
