Page 29 of Rough

“Then it’s a date.”

“Then it’s a date,” I parroted, needing to hear the resoluteness of the declaration aloud.

There was no backing out now. A new day would soon dawn, and with it, a horizon for a new Felix to emerge from the shadows of self-doubt.

8

Garret

I decided to put aside my worries about my liquor license for the afternoon so that I could help Felix with the library. In all honesty, I just wanted another excuse to spend time with him.

When I knocked on the door of his apartment, I was surprised to find it on the top floor; he had the penthouse. He had mentioned something about an inheritance, so I just assumed that was the situation.

The door swung open. Felix stood there in a pair of black jeans and a sexy gray t-shirt that was skin-tight and accentuated his muscular build. I was impressed. His eyes shimmered with delight as he stepped aside to welcome me into his home.

“Come on in,” he said and gestured around. “The place needs some modern touches, but I’m getting there.”

“I love the wood floors. Are they bamboo?” I asked.

Felix beamed proudly. “I had them installed last week.”

“Wow.” I nodded. “They look fantastic.”

“Thank you.” He smiled. “Would you like me to take your coat?”

“That would be great, actually.” I took it off and handed it to him. He hung it on a coat rack in the foyer.

“Come on in,” he said and beckoned me further into the heart of the home.

A record player played light blues in the background. I approached it. “Is it an antique?” I glanced up at Felix.

“One of the best,” he said. “It belonged to my uncle.”

“Don’t you think that music sounds better when it’s played on a turntable?” I asked.

“I do.” Felix nodded in agreement. “Would you like a glass of wine?”

“I sure would.” I grinned.

“Follow me to the kitchen. It’s just right through here.”

He led me through a cozy living room with rustic colors and a brown leather couch. He had a sense of style that I appreciated.

The kitchen was a contrast to the living room. It had white cabinets and a huge island in the center with gray and white granite.

“This looks incredible,” I said.

“Thanks.” He nodded. “This project was actually just completed about a week ago as well.”

“I really like it,” I said.

Felix walked over to a wine fridge. When he leaned over, I took advantage of the moment to check out his toned ass.

It was as fantastic as the expensive granite countertops, maybe even better. He pulled out a merlot and I attempted to flicker my gaze elsewhere so he wouldn’t know I’d been staring at his ass, admiring it.

“Will this do?” He shot me an expectant gaze.

“Is it alcohol?” I chuckled.

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