Page 65 of Innocent Intentions

Babe.

She called mebabe.

First, Matty. Always Matty.

Once, in the alley, Mr. Montclair.I wouldn’t mind hearing that one again.

But now,babe.

She didn’t even notice. It slipped out naturally.

But I noticed.

It’s the closest thing to affection I’ve gotten so far. And it feels euphoric.

She suddenly brightens, like a lightbulb went off in her head.

“Let’s watch a movie!”

I blink, still stuck on thebabething.

“Huh?”

“A movie! That was my idea! We have the theater, and I’ve watched some things in there. I thought it’d be fun. I think it’sFriday, so I figured you didn’t have work. But if you do, that’s totally okay. And I get it if you don’t want to–”

“That sounds great, sweetheart,” I cut in, smiling.

She talks so fast when she’s excited. It’s adorable.

But something bothers me.

She was nervous to ask.

I frown.Why?

Are we not at a point where she should feel comfortable inviting me to do things? I need to do better.

Then it clicks.

Dinner and a movie.

Is my sweet girl asking me out on a date?

I feel lightheaded.

Or she just wants to watch a movie.

Nope. I reject that idea.

She could always watch a movie alone. She’s inviting me to join her.

That makes this a date. Or at least, in my book it does.

Her smile widens. “What do you want to watch?”

She’s bouncing in her seat, and I can’t remember ever feeling this happy.

“How about the one Benny’s named after?”

---