I bite my lip and feel my cheeks flush. I need to change the subject. So, I start talking about work. I tell him about all the new clients that I’ve signed on, and that I will be spending more time in Portland.
“Hey, that’s good for me, then.” He grins at me.
“Oh, I guess traveling this far is a nuisance.” I stand and take my plate to the counter.
“That’s not what I meant. I actually like leaving the city. You’re right about how peaceful it is out here.” He places his plate on the counter as well.
It hits me. I don’t know what else I’m supposed to do. Hudson is just standing there, looking out my kitchen window.
“Um, Hudson, may I be honest with you for a moment.” I look down at my hands.
He takes a deep breath. “Of course you can.”
I look up at him, and he looks sad. “Well,” I clear my throat, “I’m not sure what to do next? I mean, did you want to watch a movie or go for a walk?”
“Oh.” The look of relief comes over his face. He stands there for a moment and looks like he is thinking about something serious. “May I ask you a personal question? You don’t have to answer if you don’t want, but I’m curious.”
I nod.
“Have you ever had a relationship before?”
“Do you mean a serious relationship?”
He nods.
I’m not sure if I should tell him the whole truth, but my aunt always told me to be honest no matter what. “I’ve never had a serious relationship.”
“Have you ever dated?”
“A few times, but most guys just wanted something at the end of the date that I’m not willing to give.” I clamp my mouth shut and mentally yell at myself. I can’t believe I just said those words. Now, Hudson will know that I’m a virgin.
I can’t look at him. I start to fiddle with the hem of my shirt. I can feel my inside shaking, and my cheeks are burning. The tears of embarrassment are creeping up, and I close my eyes hoping they don’t fall.
&
nbsp; “Hey,” he says softly. I hear him come over to me, but I can’t bring myself to look at him. He puts his finger under my chin and gently lifts my face. When I open my eyes, I look deep into his kind eyes. “I promise not to ask you anything that you’re not willing to do.”
He rubs the pad of his thumb over my lips. I want him to kiss me, except I’m unsure of how to do it. Hudson leans in and kisses my cheek.
“Thank you,” I whisper when he pulls back.
“How about we watch a movie?” He suggests, giving me a small, sweet smile. “And I brought the movie.”
“You did?” I look at him confused.
“Yep, it’s in my truck. I’ll be right back.” He heads out to his truck.
I smile when he leaves the room. I feel relieved that Hudson didn’t run away from me or make fun of me. Maybe he is different than other guys. I go into the living room.
“In sports related news Portland Vikings’ Captain Hu-” The announcer on the news was talking as I flip on the TV, then switch to the DVD player. I sit down in the middle of the couch.
“Okay, here you go.” He hands me a present.
“What’s this?” I take the box gingerly.
“It’s a gift and a guarantee that there will be more dates to come.” He sits down next to me. “Open it.”
I’m apprehensive as I rip the paper away, because I’m not sure what to expect. I gasp slightly when I see the contents. Then smile at Hudson. “Harry Potter movies?”