Lace (Just This Once 4)

“Did it go beyond a kiss?”

I shake my head. “Just a kiss.”

She stares at me for a minute. “The best love stories always start with a kiss.”

I glance around, looking at each person as they pass us by. “All love stories start with a kiss. Some end with a broken heart.”

Her head tilts. “Don’t be a pessimist. You kissed a hot guy. You’re probably going to fuck that hot guy. If you focus too much on the future, you’ll forget to have fun in the present.”

“That’s written on the side of your smoothie cup, isn’t it?”

“Not the fucking part, but the rest…” she shrugs her shoulder. “The rest is.”

I bow my head and laugh. “Thanks for the advice. I’ll be sure to have fun.”

“That’s all I want.” She starts in the direction of the subway. “I want that and all the details when kissing Alexander turns to more.”

“That’s not happening.” I raise a finger in the air and wiggle it at her. “What happens in my bedroom stays in my bedroom.”

She tosses me a look. “Make it happen soon, Olivia. At least one of us should be doing something in our bedroom besides sleeping.”

***

Alexander: I want you to meet someone.

I sit on the edge of my bed and read the text message he sent me again. He wants me to meet someone.

I reply in the most obvious way.

Olivia: Who?

I slide under the covers, pulling the thick blanket around me. I showered when I got home an hour ago. The chill I felt after yoga class was washed away under a hot stream of water.

I glance down when my phone chimes.

Alexander: It’s a surprise.

Before I can type anything, he’s sent another message.

Alexander: Tomorrow at six.

I didn’t think I’d see him tomorrow, so I’m in.

Olivia: Where?

I watch the three dots bounce on the screen as he types a reply.

Alexander: A car will be waiting for you in front of your building.

Reading the message twice, I rest my head on my pillow.

Olivia: Fancy or casual?

His response is instant.

Alexander: Casual. I’ll see you tomorrow, Olivia. Goodnight.

I drop my phone on my nightstand and close my eyes.