“You ok?” he asks softly.
I nod automatically. I am not ok. James watches the movement.
“Didn’t think you were the type,” he continues casually.
“That’s enough,” Blake says. His voice is calm. Steady. Not aggressive but firm. James raises an eyebrow.
“Are you sure you want to do this?” James asks.
“Leave,” Blake tells him in a darker tone.
There’s a long pause. James studies him. Then me. Then smiles again like he’s already decided something.
“Enjoy your night,” he says.
He turns and walks away, just like that. But the damage is done. My hands are shaking. Blake notices immediately.
“Lisa,” he says quietly.
“I’m fine.”
“You’re not.”
I exhale slowly.
“He’s someone I used to know.”
Blake watches me carefully. He doesn’t push. He doesn’t ask questions. Instead, he steps slightly closer again. Not crowding. Just there.
“Do you want to go home?” he asks.
I nod.
“Yes.”
The drive back is quieter. Not uncomfortable. Just thoughtful. Blake doesn’t fill the silence. He lets it sit. Which somehow makes it easier.
When we stop outside my building, neither of us moves right away.
“I had a really good time,” I say finally.
“I know.”
“You’re very confident,” I laugh.
“You told me already.”
“I’m confirming.”
“I had a really good time too,” he says quietly.
For a second, I think he’s going to ask about James again. He doesn’t. Instead, he opens my door. Walks me to the entrance. Stops just close enough. Giving me space. Waiting.
Gentleman point number four. Which is unfair. Because now I’m the one stepping closer.
I kiss him on the cheek. Soft. Careful. Deliberate. When I pull back, he’s smiling.
“I’ll see you soon?” he asks.
