Page 18 of Where We Met

But when I look at her, I see a smile that is extending from ear to ear, making it clear that she couldn't be happier.

"How about everyone retires to the family room and I’ll get to work on the dishes,” Ma suggests as she begins to clear the table.

“I’ll help you, Ma,” Mia says.

The rest of us take our wine to the couch and get comfortable in front of the fireplace. I notice Gabe and Alexis holding hands as they walk.

“Alex, are you sure you want to spend the rest of your life with Mr. Grumpy?" Marcus jokes, winking at her.

Marcus likes to ruffle Gabe's feathers, and he's damn good at it.

"At least he's getting married," Pa quips.

"Why are you taking his side?" Marcus asks.

"I'll take your side when you start giving me grandkids. I'm not getting any younger."

I laugh at their banter, proving to them that I’m paying attention now, but inside, I get this strange feeling of jealousy.

For years, I’ve enjoyed the single life. As I approached my thirties, when you would think I'd be ready to settle down, our business took off. I was thrown into money, power, and beautiful foreign women.

It wasn't until these last few months that I started to lose interest, craving something deeper and more meaningful.

"That's it for tonight. Don't forget that you have a test on Monday on the material we discussed this week. Have a great weekend," I say, dismissing the class.

I look over at Savannah and notice her laughing at something her friend said. Her signature grin is lighting up her face, and I can’t help but think that she's so damn beautiful. I thought that as the semester continued, my attraction would fade, but that hasn’t been the case.

I throw my materials into my briefcase and start up the stairs to get away from temptation. I know it's late, but I feel like I need a cup of coffee to get through the rest of the evening. It's been another twelve-hour workday for me, and the long weeks and even longer days are starting to catch up with me.

My legs move quickly toward the shop with a second motivation for the coffee now: warmth.

I open the doors and am hit with the familiar aroma of mixed coffee grounds. The night crowd of college students has begun to fill the seats as they desperately try to stay awake for all-nighters and last-minute cramming.

Even with how busy they are, it doesn't take longer than five minutes for me to stand in line and get my coffee. I take a couple of sips by the door to warm myself up, then push it open, braving the nighttime winter breeze.

As I'm approaching my car in the parking lot, I'm distracted by the sound of bickering coming from a familiar voice.

"Just leave me alone, Miles," she says.

A couple of cars down from mine stands Savannah and the douche from the bar who had his hands on her. I can't believe I'm witnessing her trying to get away from him for the second time.

I take rapid steps toward the two, trying to calm myself down on the way.

"Hey!" I shout, making both of them jump. "A woman saysleave me alone, you leave her alone. Why the hell am I having to repeat myself to you?"

"Who the hell are you?" he snaps back.

"Miles, just leave it alone." Savannah stands between us as I move in closer.

"No, I don't know who this asshole thinks he is talking to me like that. I've never even met you," Miles argues.

"That’s where you’re wrong. Obviously, you were too drunk at the bar the first—and what should have been the last—time you had your hands on Savannah. You wouldn't let go then, either. So, unless you want me turning you in to the police, I'd suggest you listen to the girl and leave her alone."

He throws his hands up in defeat. "Whatever, man. She isn't worth it," he says, then spins on his heel and takes off.

I look down at Savannah as she hugs herself. My fists clench, aching to wrap her in my arms and tell her I won't let anything happen to her.

"I'm sorry, Luke. I can't believe you had to step in again." She looks down at the ground, appearing self-conscious.

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