Page 36 of Where We Call Home

When Theo turned to face me, our eyes met. The dim light of the kitchen made hers glow, and her freckles stood out against her flushed cheeks. For a moment, I couldn’t move. The air felt heavy, like a rubber band stretched too tight.

“Um, thanks,” she said, breaking the tension. She glanced down, her voice quieter than usual.

“No problem.” I turned away, inwardly cursing myself. I’d been so close to crossing a line I wasn’t sure either of us was ready for.

I focused on opening the pizza box and setting out plates like nothing had happened. Baby steps. I had to take baby steps.

Would I love to kiss Theo right here in my kitchen? Absolutely. Would I love to take things further, to explore every inch of her body? No question. But I couldn’t risk pushing her or myself too far too fast.

“Make it two slices for me,” Theo said, standing way too close.

I smiled, grabbing an extra slice for both of us. “Want red pepper flakes?”

Her faint smile returned. “Oh, yeah.”

I’d already set out the shaker, knowing she’d say yes. Generously, I sprinkled her pizza until every inch was covered.

“Take a seat,” I said, nudging her gently. “I’ll bring it over. Just need to grab the tea first.”

She must’ve been tired because she didn’t argue, which was rare for Theo.

I poured the tea and brought everything to the table. Theo perked up immediately, clapping her hands like an excited kid.

“Dinner is served.” I bowed dramatically as I handed her a plate.

“Oh, why thank you, kind sir,” she said with mock formality.

“So,” I asked, taking a bite of my slice, “how much longer until the baby’s here?”

“Fourteen weeks,” she replied. “She’ll be here before I know it.”

“You nervous?”

“A little,” she admitted. “More about my next doctor’s appointment, though.”

“Why’s that?”

She explained the gestational diabetes test and how her mom had it during her pregnancy. She tried to brush it off, but I could see the worry lingering in her eyes.

“You know, it’s okay to feel nervous,” I said softly. “You don’t have to handle everything on your own.”

Theo gave me a small smile, though she didn’t respond.

After a few moments of silence, she set her pizza down and wiped her hands on her pants. “I could actually use your help with something else, though.”

I froze.

“Sure,” I said, keeping my tone casual even though my heart was pounding.

Theo took a sip of her drink, clearly delaying the answer. The gears in her head were turning; a look in her eyes screamed contemplation.

“I need to find a new place,” she said. “My mom’s house is too small, and her work schedule makes it hard. I was hoping you’d come apartment hunting with me?”

“Of course,” I replied without hesitation. “When were you thinking? I’m free Saturday afternoon.”

She nodded, looking relieved. “Saturday works.”

I smiled, feeling a warmth spread through me. Theo trusted me, piece by piece letting down the walls she’d built over the years.

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