I lean forward, lowering my voice like I’m sharing a secret. “Because I don’t have to thank anyone for making them except the guy who forgot to wash his hands after using the bathroom.”
She laughs, loud and surprised, and I feel unreasonably proud of myself for causing that glorious sound to come from her.
“That’s disgusting,” she says.
I cringe. “I know, but probably true.”
“Definitely true.” She looks around the park, taking in the lights strung between trees and the scattered groups of people enjoying the evening. “It’s nice here.”
“Yeah. Most people don’t think to come at night.”
“It’s definitely quieter than I imagined,” She observes. “I like it.”
“Just promise me you’ll never walk through here alone at night. It’s not always the safest area.”
She smirks. “You mean without my knight in fancy pants?”
“Yeah.” I nod chuckling softly. “It’s one thing to come here with someone, but it could be a whole other ballgame walking around here at night by yourself. Not that I’m saying you couldn’t handle yourself, but…”
“I get it. Trust me. The only place I walk alone is between the bar and my apartment.”
“Oh, so you live close to the bar?”
“Mhmm.” She nods. “I’m a few blocks away.”
I don’t love that as it’s not the best area. Especially not for a single female. I can’t imagine she lives anywhere with trusted security.
“Sometimes Cal walks me home if things feel off and especially if there are some less than questionable customers hanging around the bar.”
“I’d be happy to walk you home anytime I’m in town. Or drive you, even.”
The idea of her walking the streets at night does not sit well with me and I’m already mapping out my schedule for the next few days when she says, “That’s not necessary. But thank you for the offer.”
“Your safety is always necessary, Sutton, and I’d be happy to do it. Anytime. Seriously.”
She gives me a look that’s half-surprised, half-suspicious. “You don’t even know where I live.”
“I don’t need to. I just want to know that you’re safe is all.
“And what if I need someone at three in the morning?”
I meet her eyes. “Then you call me at three in the morning.”
She studies me like she’s trying to solve a complex equation. “You’re very…protective for someone who barely knows me.”
“I’m protective of anyone who might need it,” I say with a shrug. “It’s not personal.”
Except with her it kind of is.
“Liar,” she says, but there’s no heat in it. “It’s totally personal.”
I can’t help but grin. “Okay, maybe a little. I know you’ve obviously taken care of yourself for a long time, but just know the offer stands, if and when you need it. No questions asked.”
She nods, then stands and tosses her wrapper in a nearby trash can. “So, what’s next on this non-date food tour?”
I follow her lead, grateful for the change of subject. “Ice cream? There’s a good place around the corner.”
“Let me guess, you’re paying this time?”
