Page 34 of Something Old

I sigh, giving Dalila a one-armed hug, then pushing her towards the front door.

“Go home already.” I say in a teasing voice.

She skips ahead and pushes the door open, then turns to look back at me. She narrows her eyes and tilts her head, throwing me a look that saysyou promised.

I wave and roll my eyes. “Yeah, yeah.” I say before she disappears out to her car.

Maybe I really do need to give Leora a chance.

It’s so difficult though.

I never wanted this.

I walk through the living room, standing at the patio doors I look out towards the pool - to where Leora is lying in that bikini, her long shapely legs stretched out in front of her - I turn away from the incredible view, not liking the way my body is never in my control around her.

I like to be in control, but she turns me on in an instant and I’m worried -

I’m worried that I’ll sleep with her again and it will just get more intense and awkward.

I head upstairs to my bedroom.

I’ll have to give it some time, think it through and decide the best way to handle this situation.

The next morning, I leave the house before Leora is awake.

I do actually have work to do. But I’ve decided that I will at least have a short conversation with her tonight.

Perhaps ask how her day was. Something normal. Easy going.

I don’t want to over think it.

I’ll just keep it as simple as possible and give myself a chance to get to know her before I decide anything.

We might at least be friends.

That evening when I get back Leora has made another candle lit dinner.

Walk into the house and smell the Bolognese straight away.

One thing I can vouch for is that her cooking is incredible.

“Mas.” She sounds excited as she rushes over to greet me. “How was your day? Did you get everything done that you needed to do?” She wraps her arms around my waist, and I force myself to hug her back even though it feels stiff and formal.

“I had a good day, thanks. How was yours?” I sound a bit robotic. Why am I so terrible at this?

“It was super. Come on. I’ve just finished setting the table and the foods about to come out the oven. You have perfect timing.”

“Can I help with anything?” I ask, following her to the kitchen. She turns around and chases me away. “No, I’m making dinner for you - you’ve been at work all day. Go sit down. Relax.”

I nod. Feeling awkward. Getting chased out of my kitchen is not something I appreciate.

I suppose she is trying to make a nice gesture. That’s all.

I head through to the dining room, grabbing a drink on the way.

The room is set up with those same candles flickering like a festive little party.

I sit down, not relaxed at all, taking big sips of my drinking hoping the alcohol will help me through this dinner.

---