Page 58 of Spades

And it is.

Alissa’s room is warm, and her bed is soft. I close my eyes, listening to her breathing in and out.

In and out.

Getting slower…and slower…

And consciousness slips away.

* * *

I wake up.

Where am I?

This room isn’t mine. It’s outfitted in yellows and pinks, like an Easter basket.

Blond hair on my chest.

I blink a few times.

Right. Alissa. We had the most fantastic sex I’ve ever had, and then dozed off.

Trying not to disturb her, I crane my neck around to look at the alarm clock on her nightstand.

4 a.m.

I close my eyes, thinking hard.

Yesterday was Saturday.

It’s Sunday. The shop opens at 8 a.m.

Fuck. That’s in four hours.

I don’t think Alissa set an alarm—why would she?—and if I go to sleep now, I’ll wake up too late.

I gently shimmy out from under Alissa, somehow managing not to wake her. I go back to her living room, gather all my clothes, and get dressed.

I don’t want her to think I just abandoned her. I’ll leave her a note.

I look around. There’s a pad of paper on the fridge, a pen attached. I’ll leave it somewhere she’ll see it in the morning.

She has a coffeepot. Perfect. I’ll leave it on top.

Alissa—

Thanks for a great evening. Wish I could have stayed longer, but I have to open the shop. Please text me when you get up. I’d love to see you again, maybe somewhere new? Let me know.

Best, Maddox

I look at the note. Hmm… Best?

Well, it’s not like I can sign it with “Love, Maddox.” That would make me look insane after only two dates.

Though, come to think of it, it wouldn’t necessarily be dishonest, either.

Shit. Could I really be falling in love with this woman already?

---