They got dressed quickly and headed out of the apartment. Demetri held her hand as they walked. It was hot outside, but the sun's rays felt good on her skin. “So I go back to work tomorrow. My boss has been so awesome through all of this. How long do you think you’ll be able to stay in the states?”
“I probably should go back to Greece this weekend. I was able to take off from work, but I cannot stay away for too long. How about you show me your office before I leave?”
I hate he has to leave so soon, but at least we can be together a little longer. And then what? How is this going to work? Should I ask now, or wait a little bit?“Yes, I’d love to show off my gorgeous Greek,” she winked at him. “I…wish you could stay longer, but I understand.”
“I wish I could too. But we will figure something out. I will come visit you when I can. And I will bring you to me when your time allows. We can enjoy each other when we can get together.” Demetri tucked her under his arm as they walked.
She nodded her head and smiled.Okay.She sighed.One day at a time, Noelle. Don’t get ahead of yourself. We don’t need a long-term plan so soon.
“You mentioned coffee. Do you think they will have Greek coffee for me?” He gave her a hopeful look.
“I don’t think so. But we’ll find you something you’ll like.”
They walked to a coffee shop around the corner from her place and ordered some drinks to go. A nearby park was the perfect setting to sit down and enjoy their beverages. There were bike riders and rollerbladers, kids playing on play sets, and people enjoying the beautiful day. An alert on Noelle’s phone chimed, and she checked the message.
Caroline: Can you meet me at your place? Niko and I aren’t with Claire, and she has the keys to the apartment. We let her and Eli have some alone time. ;)
Noelle typed a quick reply.
Noelle: Ok, Be back shortly. We are just around the corner. Can’t wait to hear the juicydetails. ;b
“I’m sorry. We need to go back already. Caroline and Niko are locked out of the apartment.”
“Okay. Tomorrow, I get to see your office?” he asked.
“Yes, and tomorrow night I want to introduce you to some American things before you leave.”
“If they are as wonderful as you, I am sure I will love them.” Demetri squeezed Noelle, and they walked to her place. “What kind of American things are you talking about?”
“You’ll see. I want to surprise you. But I think you’ll like what I have planned. We just need to make a quick stop for a few things at the corner grocery.”
Chapter 45
THE WOLF AND THE LAMB ~Demetri~
Noelle and Demetri arrived back at the apartment and found Caroline and Niko waiting outside with scowls on their faces. Demetri made a mental note to ask Noelle what that was all about. Noelle unlocked the door, and Demetri and Niko ducked out to take showers while Noelle and Caroline sat down to talk.
When Demetri finished his shower, he found the girls visiting in the living room. He stood by the door and looked at Noelle.I am so happy you are safe.He took a deep breath.I am not ready to leave you, but it will be for the best. If we keep what’s between us simple, no one will get hurt. We will see each other when we can.
“We could watch someFriends,” Noelle suggested.
“Sounds good!” Caroline sighed and sat back on the couch. “Oh look! Just in time, Demetri, my favorite Greek!”
Demetri smiled at Caroline and walked the rest of the way into the room.
“I thought my brother was your favorite Greek?” Noelle teased.
“Eh, he’s only half Greek.” Caroline winked at Demetri.
Demetri sat next to Noelle. “You and Niko, are you…” Demetri waved his hand, at a loss for what to say.
“We’re friends. Practically siblings,” Caroline grumbled.
“Uh, I’ll get the DVD set up. Do you want any popcorn? I think I have some microwaveable bags in the cabinet.” Noelle got up to find the disc she wanted.
“Sure. I’ll go make some.” Caroline rummaged through the cabinet until she found what she was looking for.
“Demetri, have you ever seenFriends?” It’s our favorite show! Noelle browsed her collection.