Page 94 of Rome: The Ballerina

He turned the phone around to bypass the request for a security code with my Face ID. I observed, silently, as he toyed with the screen.

My Saint. He saved his contact. His choice of words made my stomach flip.

Once.

Twice.

Three whole times.

He placed the phone up to his ear after pressing the contact he’d just created. His phone vibrated in his hand. He ignored the call and then ended it from my cell. Once he reached his call log, he tapped the missed call log.

Aliza (5).

Aliza (2).

Aliza (8).

Aliza (3).

The amount of missed calls from the same contact was alarming. I chose to remain silent while mentally noting my observation.

“My pursuit has begun because I am a free man, Rome. Not exactly, but in almost every sense of the word.”

“I haven’t said an–”

“But, you’re thinking it. Should there be any confusion on your end, ask and I will clarify it. You strike me as a woman who thrives off clarity. I have no problem making sure you have it in every situation you approach with me. Always. Understood, Rome?”

I swallowed back the air that had gotten caught in my throat. With a nod, I responded. Words weren’t available at the moment.

“I’d like the privilege of hearing your voice,” he expressed, “Whether you’re two or two hundred thousand feet away.”

He finished saving my contact and peered down at me through hazy eyes. His lids were lower. His voice was softer.

“That won’t be an issue for you, will it?”

I shook my head. “No.”

He smiled, pressing my phone against his chest.

“The way you’re not willing to break my heart so soon is– It’s– I don’t know. I’m fucking with it.”

He handed over my cell. It was warm to the touch.

Just like me.

“My Rome?”

“You said I was yours, huh?” He reminded me.

“I did.”

“From my head to my soles, right?”

I nodded, feeling the smile creep up my face. Slowly, it began at my chin.

“Yes.”

“I’m as confident as you in my beliefs that you belong to me, too. From your head to your soles. You’re not the exception in this situation, Rome. I knew it when everyone but you disappeared on that stage. So, yes. My Rome.”

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