Page 20 of Fervency Love

I take the opportunity to watch him. His walk, his outfit, his mannerisms, gestures. He takes off the jacket. Underneath is a cherry polo, wrapped closely around a toned torso and biceps. Does he work out? My imagination is in full swing. I wonderhow he looks without the shirt.Are you insane?Remember why you’re here!my head reminds me.

Ve is back at the table. He looks at me in silence, as if trying to read my thoughts. The waiter brings us our beers. I sip. It’s delicious. I’m not really into beer, but this one is great. Maybe because we’re on a date. We laugh, talk, and tell stories. I’m having a good time. He’s a great talker, and the conversation flows naturally—no awkward silences.

“What were you playing at, Ve?”

“What do you mean?” he asks, surprised.

“All the driving around and catcalling me, the knocking at my door and running away.”

“Oh, that. I had nothing to do with that.”

“But what was that?”

Ve keeps quiet for a few moments. He’s clearly thinking of something or coming up with a lie.

“Well?” I nudge him impatiently. He won’t get the time to spin some bullshit story.

“The truth is that I saw you once in church. I started asking around if someone knew you. That’s how the guys learned about you. Meanwhile, Phil developed a crush on Lizzy.”

“Interesting…” I mutter. So now I know for sure that our eyes have met. I remember that one time at church when I felt someone watching me. When I turned around I only saw those beautiful blue eyes, staring holes into me. I can recall how taken aback I was.

“What’s so interesting, Abby?”

“Interesting and childish. I’m happy you weren’t part of that.” Maybe he did speak the truth, but definitely not the whole truth. “Why wouldn’t you ask me out on yourself?”

“I wanted to, but if you need to know, I’m very shy. I didn’t think you’d say yes. I’m a realist and I knew what my chanceswere. And I didn’t ask anyone to do it for me. Just so we’re clear.”

“So your buddies helped you out?”

“I think so.”

I knew what my chances were. Did he actually think I was out of his league? I ponder that for a few moments, trying to understand why he’d think so. I was the one who thought that someone like him would probably never even look my way—that shy little girl next door. I’m not a star like Ivy.

He notices our glasses are empty.

“So, another beer?” he asks.

“No, that’s probably not the best idea. Unless you want to carry me home.” I chuckle. Another one is a bad idea. I can’t keep alcohol down. And with him, I’m even more defenseless. It’s as if he is intoxicating enough on his own.

“Oh, come on, don’t be silly. After two beers?” I’m not sure if he’s making fun of me or seriously can’t believe anyone could be such a lousy drinker.

“You’ll see,” I warn him.

“Also with syrup?”

“Yes, please.”

After a while, the bartender brings us another round. I don’t notice the two hours pass.

“Gosh, I booked a tanning session for eight. I completely forgot!”

“Then cancel it,” he snaps.

“I can’t; I’ve already paid.” I’m beginning to regret planning it like that. This date is better than I expected.

“Alright, finish your beer. I’ll go with you.”

Chapter 12

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