Page 63 of Sophia, Property of Tracker

“Get dressed. I’ve made us a snack.”

She sits up, “You have?”

“Yup. You see, your man is not only good for bed, he can cook as well.”

We laugh, and I turn around to walk to the door. “Don’t be long. It’s getting cold.”

I leave just as she gets up and make my way back to the kitchen. Because it’s a nice night, I decide to set up the little table outside with our food.

Grabbing our plates, I walk outside and place them on the table that sits between two chairs, then I make my way back and pour a glass of wine. I’m more of a beer drinker, but I think the night calls for wine.

Making my way to my seat, I sit and wait for Sophia to join me. The moon shines bright, and light hits the ocean, casting light all around.

Sipping my wine, I hear footsteps behind me.

“Oh wow, it’s a beautiful evening.”

Sophia sits beside me wearing jean shorts and a singlet, her hair still wild from our lovemaking.

“You look beautiful.”

She smiles and replies, “Why, thank you.”

I pick up her plate and hand it to her, then sit back down with mine in hand.

“It smells delicious. What is it?”

“Steak sandwiches. Hope that’s okay. It’s all I could quickly make.”

“It’s more than okay. Smells delicious.” Taking a bite, she moans.

Once she’s finished chewing, I say, “Good?”

“That’s the best steak sandwich I’ve ever had.” I smile back at her saying, “Thank you. Let’s see.”

Taking a bite, I also appreciate it. “You’re right. It is good.”

We continue in silence for a while, eating and having a drink of our wine now and then. The warm breeze hits us, and when we’re finished, we put the plates into the dishwasher and refill our wine glasses, walking back outside. This time Sophia sits on my lap with her head resting on my chest.This really is a perfect night.

“Sophia?” I say, her attention now on me. “You know I love you, and I wouldn’t ever do anything to hurt you. This thing with Tash—”

She places her finger to my lips, stopping me from speaking further. “Let’s not talk about Tash tonight. Let’s enjoy our company. We do need to talk about the situation, but not tonight. I just want to enjoy the moment.”

Sighing, I agree and nod. “You’re right.” I place my hands around her waist, and she rests her head on me again. We sit there quietly, and I ask, “So are you happy I didn’t spoil your surprise?”

“Yes, this is a beautiful place. How often does Sam get to come down here?”

“Not much. He has a housekeeper who keeps the place maintained, but when he can, he comes down here with his wife and kids.”

“I’d love to own something like this someday,” she says, her words filled with hope. “But I’d like to live here permanently. Cook for my family while I look at the ocean. Go for strolls on the beach with my husband and maybe get a dog to take on walks.”

My heart sings at the mention of a family. I’ve wanted all the things she mentions and more. And I want them with her. I want to tell her that, but I know it’s not the right time. Why would she accept a proposal if she won’t accept my cut? I know she’s the one I want to spend the rest of my life with, but I’ve told myself small steps. I’ve been thinking about the situation with Tash and have decided I will ask her for a paternity test because if he is mine and does need an operation, then I’d want to help. I’m not going to be a dad who turns his back on his kids like my old man did. I will be there to support him.

Kissing the top of her head, I feel her shiver beneath me. “You cold, baby?”

“A little, but I’ll be okay.”

Running my hands down her arm to keep her from getting too cold, she sighs into my chest, and we sit there for a while engrossed in our own thoughts.

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