His long legs take up so much space. The veins on his forearms are bulging as he folds his arms together and leans toward me. “Thanks for coming today.” The sincerity in his voice has me looking up to meet his eyes. “Even though you brought Bargain Basement Benoit with you.”
“He likes podcasts,” I groan, knowing he’ll understand my lament.
“Gross.” Ben wrinkles his nose. “At least listen to an audiobook.”
That makes me laugh. A real, deep belly laugh. Something I didn’t even know I was capable of. And fuck, Ben’s face lights up.
“Come over tonight,” he says, eyes searching mine. Back and forth, back and forth.
“I can’t,” I reply.
His shoulders slump so minutely I barely notice it happen. “Another date?”
“Yeah…” I watch Ben tense—maybe it’s a little bit fun torturing him. “With Ernest,” I finish.
“Ernest,” Ben repeats. “Your dog.”
“Mhmm,” I nod. “But… you could come over to mine?”
Ben responds in a similar manner to when Ernest is offered a treat. He instantly perks up, his head notching to the side. “Yes,” he replies, planting his large hands on the table and pushinghimself up. “I’ll… I’ll text you. After I’m done. But I’m walking away now before you change your mind.”
I chuckle to myself. “Goodbye, Benjamin. See you later.”
His goofy smile is back. “See you later, Red.”
Closing up, be there soon.
Do you need anything? I can grab some dinner.
Or if Ernest wants treats.
I want him to like me.
Red
I’m already regretting this.
You won’t regret it later *wink emoji*
IF that’s where the night is going
Totally fine if not. No expectations.
Red
God, you don’t shut up even in text form.
I’m out of diet cherry cola, Ernest loves the expensive treats that are in the bakery section, and I wouldn’t say no to a burger from Louie’s.
Damn, Red.
Red
YOU OFFERED.
You, I did. See you in thirty.
Twenty-nine minutes later I arrive at Cole’s apartment. The last time I was here, I didn’t really get a chance to look around, but I get that chance now when Cole throws open the door, wearing the same mouthwatering cutoff jean shorts and crop top that she had on earlier. The only difference is the fuzzy polka dot socks now covering her feet.
