Christmas Therapy

He felt as if his insides were vibrating. He couldn’t pinpoint the last time a date excited him. Feeling energized he scurried to the door after purchasing what they wanted from the antique store.

Heather giggled. “You look excited.”

He opened the door for her. “I am.”

“You thought I would say no.”

“Maybe.”

She touched her own throat. “Maybe you’re growing on me.”

His chest flooded with warmth. “I hope so.” He extended his hand, and she slipped hers in his as he opened the door. Heather grabbed the handle and Allen helped her into the passenger seat. He didn't know what perfume she was wearing, but he detected the familiar fruit and floral smell. Whatever it was, it was Heather. “You okay?”

She bobbed her head. “I’m okay.”

He set their bags in the backseat, but didn’t close the passenger door. He faced her again after closing the back door, allowing another moment to pass between them. Though the wind chilled his back, Allen didn’t move. He lowered his eyes for a second but then raised his chin once more.

Heather licked her lips. “Are you… going to get inside?”

“You’re cold?” he asked.

She shook her head. “Not now.”

Allen placed his foot on the step and raised to be face level with her.

Her grin grew. “You could get in the truck.”

He stroked her chin. “That would defeat the purpose of this.” He inched closer. Her sweet scent seeped into his lungs. Heather leaned in closer only to jerk once a cell phone rang.

Allen chuckled. “Perfect timing.”

She pulled in her lips as if to hide her smile. “Looks that way.” She grabbed her cell from inside her purse. Allen closed her door, walked over to the driver's side, and settled into his seat.

“Mom, I don't think that’s—”

He turned the radio volume on low and pulled out of the parking lot.

He glimpsed over at Heather, who rubbed at her forehead. “Mom, don't you think—I mean—okay.” She hung up and tucked her cell back into her purse.

“Everything alright?” Allen asked.

She shrugged. “Sure, as long as you don't mind having dinner with my family.”

Allen's blinked only to realize the traffic light turned red. He slammed the breaks, hearing the tires screech.

Heather pressed her hand into the dashboard. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah, sorry about that.” He looked in his rear-view mirror, grateful no one was following close behind him. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah. Sorry if that was a... shock,” she said.

Meeting the family. It had been a while since he did that, but he was sure Ms. Diana wouldn’t grill him too much over her daughter. He thought about what Heather shared about her father. He would give anything to have his mother back, but he could understand her not wanting to talk to the man.

A faint smile spread across his lips. He never took a woman antiquing. Heather’s eyes sparkled at the shop. She even found a wicker basket that she liked and wanted inside her home. She caved and bought it after negotiating with the owner. Allen’s chest swelled with pride.

“Do you mind? I guess my mother picked up our... chemistry at my house.” She stared over at him.

He smiled. “I don't mind.”