Page 37 of That's What Love

“He took me out last night and we sort of… crashed here.”

“I’m sure there was more than crashing,” she jokes.

“Shush,” I reply.

“Oh, so there is more?” She squeals with excitement. “Pin me your location, you owe me details!” She hangs up. I look at my phone, rolling my eyes while sending her my location.

* * *

While I wait for Scarlett,I take the time to explore the cabin. It’s clean, no garbage anywhere, definitely not messy like my ex-boyfriends’ homes. As I head into the hallway, I notice pictures of him and some other people. “2010… Dad and me,” I read. Oh wow, he’s the spitting image of his dad. I frown, remembering him mentioning he passed away. Photos of Eric and his mom hang on the wall, bringing a smile to my face. He seems really close to her.

A loud honk interrupts my thoughts, and I rush to the window, peeking through the curtains. Scarlett’s leaning out of the car window with a mischievous grin. I grab my bag and quickly leave the house. As I climb into the car, Scarlett gives me an exaggerated wink. “So, spill the beans, girl! What happened last night?”

I roll my eyes and playfully nudge her shoulder. “Nothing!” I protest, perhaps a bit too forcefully. “Eric and I just had a pleasant evening together.”

She raises an eyebrow, clearly not convinced. “Pleasant evening, huh? Well, I’ll let you off the hook for now. By the way, cute dress.”

I hesitate for a moment, then blush and admit, “Well… we sort of… spent the night together.”

My body jolts forward as she exclaims, “Do what! Oh my gosh!”

I chuckle, trying to keep the mood light. “Can you not slam on the brakes, please!”

“Sorry, sorry!” She looks at the road, her mouth curving into a smile. “Sex is a big deal for you. You wouldn’t have given your virginity up for just anyone.”

“I know. Something about him just feels…” I trail off.

“Right?”

“Yes.”

I chuckle. As we drive back to my place, I can’t help but think about Eric’s note and the small gestures that make him so endearing. I’ve never felt this way about someone, and it’s a delightful feeling.

* * *

Scarlett drops me off,allowing me to come in a little late since I stayed over at Eric’s. I stand in front of my closet, trying to decide what to wear for the day ahead. After a few moments of contemplation, I settle on a navy-blue blouse and a pair of well-fitted blue jeans. It’s a classic and professional look that will do for my barista job. I quickly slip into my outfit, smoothing out any wrinkles.

As I stand in front of the mirror, I give myself a once-over and adjust a stray strand of hair. I grab my purse and head to the café.

The café greets me with the scent of fresh coffee and a lively hum of chatter. I tie my apron on as I gear up for another day’s work. Scarlett is behind the counter, cursing at the register.

“You good?” I ask.

“Yeah, this damn thing is a pain in my ass. I need to get another register, preferably all digital.”

“Well, I mean, yeah, that thing is a dinosaur.”

My phone buzzes, a call from Mom lighting up the screen.

“Hey, Mom, what’s up?” I ask.

“Hey, any chance you could come to Lucas Law Office this afternoon? The lawyer will be here to discuss the will.”

“What time?” I ask.

“2 o’clock” she says.

“Scar?” I call out.

---