Ialways thought about Serenity in the waiting room of Darla’s office. Somewhere along the way, Serenity and I became everything to each other. She became the person I'd call or text about any news regarding my day-to-day. I sent her countless book ideas for her book clubs because, apparently, the fantasy romance genre was a hit amongst her patrons. My phone vibrated in my pocket, and I hoped it was her—it usually was.
Serenity
I forgot to tell you something during our dinner date last week.
No matter how much we talked, hearing her voice never ceased to make me smile. She brightened my days in ways I never knew were possible. She kept me grounded in the present when so much of my life had been anchored in the past.
Me
You left me hanging for three days?!
Serenity
I know! I’m the worst. But it was officially confirmed today. I was promoted at work. I am now the official Assistant Store Manager and Book Club Coordinator.
I couldn’t help but grin widely at her news. I knew the book clubs she hosted were her favorite part of her position. She'd also gain experience with the business side as the Assistant Store Manager. I beamed with pride.
Me
That’s so awesome! No wonder you’ve been too busy to spend any time with me. Can I take you out to celebrate?
Serenity
Can we go on the bookstore date you were talking about?
Me
Absolutely. I’m already looking up the best local bookstores. Any recommendations since you work at one?
Serenity
There’s a new store called Bookmarked. It has a coffee and tea bar. Can we go there?
Me
Your wish is my command. Have a good rest of your day at work, pretty girl, and I’ll see you after work.
Serenity
You, too, handsome.
My face heated. We became more comfortable expressing our likeness toward each other. I hadn’t stopped thinking about kissing her since she left my house last week. Since our date would be public, maybe she'd be more eager to kiss me goodbye tonight, since we couldn’t exactly get caught up in the moment and have sex in the bookstore–unless.No, I couldn’t think that way. I had always believed sex was a way to express love rather than a pleasurable means to an end. I had my hookup moments when I was in the depths of my grief, but Serenity meant so much more. If we connected purely by making eye contact with one another, then I’m sure we’d feel even more connected once there was nothing between us.
Luckily, I had therapy before she’d be coming cover, so I could have a clear mind. I’ve had some lingering thoughts, causing increased anxiety and fear about getting too close to someone again. I did my best to shut my thoughts down because I wanted more than anything to welcome Serenity into my vulnerable side.
To love again.
To be loved again.
I had to tell myself that healing wasn’t linear and some days would be harder than others.
“Come on back,” Darla said, snapping me out of my thoughts.
I followed her to her office, which was situated at the back of the building.
“So how have you been since you came back from your long work trip?” Darla asked as we took our seats in her office.
I grabbed the red square pillow and squeezed it to my chest. Something I always did when I wanted to discuss something important with Darla. I'm sure she noticed.
