Page 13 of Asking For a Friend

On our lunch dates, he has been tense, but he’s been slowly relaxing lately. I make him nervous, but I don’t know why. Maybe I’ll find out tonight. I feel eyes on me and look up. He’s here. Fuck me, he looks hot. His red hair is styled tonight, not like the other times I’ve seen him when it seems he spends too much time running his hands through it. He sees me, and I can’t help the smile that breaks out. His is more nervous, but he doesn’t hesitate to make his way through the throng.

I stand up, and when he reaches the table, he says a breathy hello. I lean in and skim my lips over his cheek.

“It’s good to see you again, Lando.”

His blush is adorable. “I’m sorry if I’m late. Have you been waiting long?”

“You’re not late. I was early. I’ll probably show myself up as a total dork, but I’ve been excited about tonight.”

He laughs low, husky even. Not what I expected from him, but the sound goes straight to my balls. He slips his coat off his shoulders, and dear god, he’s sexy. The outline of his nipples is visible through the fitted shirt, and my balls get another jolt. Damn, his nipples are both pierced, with bars rather than rings. Why does that surprise me? Just because he’s shy around me doesn’t mean he is with the rest of his life.

“You look amazing, Lando.”

“Thank you.” His smile comes back. “You do too.”

“Can I get you a drink?”

As he settles into the chair opposite mine, I go and get him the glass of wine he requested. When I return to the table, Lando’s talking to a young man, probably early twenties and good-looking too. I curb my scowl and place Lando’s drink on the table. The other guy pats Lando’s shoulder and walks away again.

“Sorry, that was rude. He’s a friend from the coffee shop.” He picks up his glass and takes a sip. “I’ve wanted a drink all afternoon. I had a tricky morning and then went shopping with Thom. He was at Scottie’s birthday party last week. Anyway, he’s a personal shopper at Selfridges and takes clothes-buying very seriously.”

“Is everything okay?” What did he mean by the word ‘tricky’? It could be anything from a broken washing machine or a difficult ex harassing him.

“Yeah, it’s fine. Family issues. You know what they can be like.” Subject closed. “Did you have a fun evening?”

“I did. Ellis has been my best friend since my first year at boarding school. He’s married to a woman way too good for him, but they work together. They have twin girls I’m godfather to. It’s always good to see them. You’ll have to come along next time. Ellis is desperate to meet you, and Sophie is lovely.”

Lando widens his eyes. “You want me to meet your best friend?”

“Only if you want to. I’m surprised he hasn’t been down to the coffee shop to check you out already. He’s a nosy bastard.”

“You’ve finally told him about me?”

“Um, yeah. Is that okay?” I’m getting a bad feeling now. This could be our one and only proper date. But what can I do to make him comfortable with me? He’s become relaxed when we had lunch.

“Of course it’s all right. I’m surprised, that’s all. I doubt he’ll find me interesting.” He shrugs, and I think he truly means it.

“I think you’re amazing. You’re successful at what you do. You’re gorgeous, you’re fun, and I like you, Lando. I really like you.”

He’s quiet for a few moments. “Thank you, I like you too.”

Before I can reply, a waitress comes over and informs us our table is ready. As we follow her to the restaurant part, Lando gets plenty of admiring looks, and a couple of women whisper to each other. Is he recognised often? Our table is in an alcove, keeping us private from most of the other diners. The waitress hands us the menus and tells us the specials, then leaves. We’re alone again.

“Do you get recognised often?” I ask.

“Sometimes, not often. It’s different at book signings because I’m there to meet readers, but every now and then, people seem to know who I am. Not at the coffee shop, but then I don’t think they would expect to see me there.”

“Book signings? Like in a bookshop?” I’ve heard of them. Is he that well known, and just how popular are his books? I’m going to have to read one.

“That can happen, but I’m an indie author. I sell my books mainly through Amazon as digital books. Y’know, the ones you can read on a Kindle. I go to signings where twenty, thirty, and sometimes even more authors attend. The readers can meet all their favourite authors under one roof. It’s great fun and can take place over the whole weekend.”

“Wow! I’ve never known things like that went on. They sound great.”

“Yeah, I’ve got one in November. Maybe you could come along.” He blushes and stutters. “I mean, you don’t have to. It would probably be boring for you.”

“No, I’d like to. November is a busy time for me, but if you give me the date, I’ll check to see if I can be free.” I mean it too. The idea of spending time in Lando’s world sounds exciting. And I think I’ve made him happy. He gives me a soft smile, a sparkle in his eyes. I want him to look at me like that all the time.

“Let me know, and I’ll organise a room for you.” He beams and picks up his menu.

---