“Pleasure to meet you,” he said. “Are you all heading out?”
“I am,” she said. “I’m sure I’ll see you around, though.” She shot him a bright smile.
“See you,” he said, waving as he walked toward his room.
I walked Serenity out to her car. We hugged for a long time before I finally let her go. “Text me when you’re home safe, okay?”
“I will. Pinky promise.” We joined pinkies before she settled in her car and drove away.
I walked back into the house and leaned against the door with the biggest smile on my face. The exhaustion caught up to me from traveling, so I headed to bed, waiting for Serenity’s message before I fell asleep.
Serenity
I’m home. Thank you for the great night.
Me
Any time, pretty girl. Sleep is about to take me under, but let’s plan our next date tomorrow.
Serenity
Get that beauty sleep. Goodnight, buff boy.
Me
Goodnight, sad girl.
I woke up from the best sleep I’ve had in…I don’t know how long. I didn’t even remember to take my sleep meds last night but still fell into the deepest sleep with thoughts of Serenity calming me. There were hardly nights when I slept the whole night through. I usually woke up from nightmares and spent the rest of the time in a restless sleep.
I already wanted to see Serenity again. I hoped she didn’t have to work tonight, so maybe I could make her dinner.
Me
Good morning, pretty. Do you happen to work tonight?
Serenity
I’m actually heading to work now, but I’m off at four. Miss me already?
Me
Always. Can I make you dinner tonight?
Serenity
What time? Should I bring anything?
Me
How about 6? Just bring your cute self. Have a good day at work.
Serenity
See you soon.
I crawled out of bed to prepare for the day, but first—coffee. Gio stood in the kitchen having his coffee.
“Hey man,” I said as I approached theNespressomachine to put a pod in.
