Page 33 of Liam
Standing by her car, I take a deep breath. “I had a wonderful time tonight, Sofia. Would you like to do this again? Maybe Friday?”
Sofia’s smiles. “I’d love to, Liam. It’s a date. And don’t think I’ve forgotten about your mysterious past. I’ll crack that puzzle eventually.”
Sofia’s eyes meet mine, a silent invitation in their depths. I lean in, the scent of her perfume enveloping me. Our lips touch, soft and hesitant at first, then with more certainty. Her hand rests on my arm, and I cup her cheek. The kiss is sweet, like the tiramisu we shared earlier.
I wait for the rush, the quickening of my pulse, the swooping sensation in my stomach. But as we part, I’m left with only a mild warmth, like sipping a cup of tea that’s cooled too long.
Sofia’s cheeks are flushed, her smile shy, and I mirror her expression automatically. My mind races, analyzing the moment, searching for a hint of excitement or longing. Instead, I find only a calm appreciation, as if I’ve just viewed a pleasant painting.
“Thank you for a lovely evening,” I say.
Sofia’s smile wavers for a moment, almost imperceptible. “See you on Friday?”
I nod. “Absolutely. I’ll call you.”
As Sofia turns to unlock her car, I stuff my hands in my pockets, rocking on my heels. “Drive safely,” I add, wincing at how stilted I sound.
She gives me one last smile before sliding into the driver’s seat. “Goodnight, Liam.”
“Goodnight, Sofia,” I reply, raising a hand in farewell as she starts the engine.
As I watch Sofia’s taillights disappear around the corner, I pull out my phone, ready to text my friends about my success. Instead, a message from Aleria pops up.
Aleria
Hope your date went well. Mine was unexpectedly enlightening. Did you dazzle her with your vast knowledge of computer engineering, or did you stick to your expertise in corporate takeovers?
A grin spreads across my face, warmth blooming in my chest as my fingers fly across the screen.
I'll have you know I was the perfect gentleman. No hostile takeovers in sight. Though I may have accidentally tried to merge our dinner reservations.
Aleria
Amateur. Next time, try to buy the restaurant to impress her.
A snort escapes me, earning a curious glance from a passing couple, but I can’t stop smiling.
You wound me, James. I’ll have you know I considered buying it twice. How about you? Dazzle your date with tales of test tubes and Bunsen burners?
Aleria
Please. I have more finesse than that. I regaled him with the intricate mating rituals of single-celled organisms.
A bark of laughter escapes me.
I bet. Nothing says romance like amoeba reproduction. Did you demonstrate the process? I hear interpretive dance really drives the point home.
Aleria
Says the man who probably recited the entire history of JavaScript on his date. Let me guess, you wooed her with tales of semicolon placement?
I lean against my car, engrossed in our exchange.
I’ll have you know I saved that for the second date. First dates are all about CSS. Really sets the mood on fire.
“Ahem.”
I jump, almost dropping my phone. Marcus stands by the open car door, one eyebrow raised so high it’s in danger of disappearing into his hairline.
