Page 11 of Agony

“It’s your turn to pick,” I replied.

“Chinese it is,” he said with a grin.

I started to laugh again and directed him to the Chinese restaurant a few blocks away.

ChapterFour

Arsen pulled up in front of the restaurant and looked at me.

“This feels kind of redundant,” he said, making a face.

“Well, there’s a sub shop a few blocks away that makes some really awesome sandwiches. Turn the car off; we can walk from here,” I replied, taking off my seatbelt and getting out of the car.

Arsen jogged around the side of his car and caught up to me. I was enjoying the sunny day and it was kind of interesting to me that Arsen coming back put me in a much better mood.

We chatted on the way to the sub shop. Not a serious conversation, which made me feel better. I had enough shit to deal with when I went back to “real” life.

“After you, shorty,” Arsen teased, opening the door for me.

I stuck my tongue out at him as I entered the shop and waved at the college guys behind the counter. I was on friendly terms ever since I had moved out here, because for a while, all I could afford was this place.

Arsen stood behind me in line and put his chin on top of my forehead. I shook my head slightly and he laughed.

“Just trying to get comfortable while I look at my options,” he said.

“By all means, take your time,” I replied.

I reached into my back pocket for my wallet. Then I checked the other one, realizing that I hadn’t brought it.

“Ah shit. I forgot my money at home,” I grumbled.

Arsen pulled his chin off of my head and stood in front of me, blocking my view of the menu board.

“What are you doing?” I asked, giving him a shove.

“You didn’t bring your money, so I guess you’re not eating,” he said, glancing down at me with a serious face.

“Wow,” I replied in disbelief.

Almost immediately his lips began to twitch and he burst out laughing.

“I’m kidding, Neve! I wouldn’t do that to you. Just let them know what you want; I’ve got this,” he said, taking his wallet out of his back pocket.

I shoved him playfully aside and stepped up to the counter.

“I’ll take the usual, Matt,” I said to the red haired, freckled face young man.

“I figured as much. What about your boyfriend?” Matt asked.

A look of confusion crossed my face. I didn’t have a boyfriend and the only other person in here with me was ... Arsen.

“He’snot --”

“I’ll have a twelve inch tuna on whole wheat,” he said, interrupting me with a grin.

“On it, guys,” Matt said with a big smile.

I looked up at Arsen who was still grinning. He draped his arm across my shoulders and pulled me to his side.

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