Page 60 of Vince
Before I can even think of the answer, I hear, “Pellham Bay’s Park in the Bronx.”
“What?” I turn to look at Sydney who just grins like the Cheshire cat as we await the answer. Of course, the couple in the cab is choosing to phone a friend. “I’ve never heard of that park,” I say in disbelief.
“There are a few others. But that’s the biggest,” she states matter-of-factly, which causes me to chuckle.
“I guess the better question iswhydo you know that?”
Her green eyes twinkle, and her perfect lips smirk. “I had to do a report on New York City in middle school, and I became obsessed with everything about New York.” She shakes her head then sighs, “I’ve never been there but have always wanted to go. It’s definitely on my bucket list.”
“I went my junior year in high school with my parents and Van. We did all the touristy things. I would love to go back sometime.”
“Someday I’ll get there. I’ve read so many books about New York City, and I can’t wait to see it in person.”
Julia inserts herself into the conversation. “Can we go there someday, Unks?”
“Maybe when you’re a little older, squirt. We’ll have to plan it.”
Julia beams then turns to Sydney. “Maybe we can all go together?”
Sydney’s smart and stays non-committal. “We’ll see…”
Wanting to change the subject before Sydney’s forced to make promises, I waggle my eyes playfully, “Are the cookies ready yet?”
“Unks, we have to let them get hard.” She waves a finger at me in warning. “And Sydney says if you eat too much, you’ll get a tummy ache.”
“I’ll keep that in mind,” I promise.
Sydney sucks in a deep breath. “I hate to say it, but I have to head out. I’ve got an exam tomorrow and a long day.”
Glancing out the window, I realize it’s dark, and she didn’t bring her car. Standing, I offer, “Want a ride home? Jules and I will happily drop you off.”
“I won’t turn one down. I can’t wait until the days get a bit longer.” Sydney smiles, and a tingle flows through my spine with excitement to prolong our time together—even if it is chaperoned.
Turning to Julia, I suggest, “Hey, Jules, run and get your shoes and coat from your room.”
She eagerly bolts down the hall.
Knowing my time to be alone with Sydney is limited, I make the most of it. Closing the distance between us, my eyes focus on her beautiful lips. “Thanks again for coming to dinner.”
“Thanks for having me; it was fun.” She reaches up on her toes as her arms snake around my neck.
I pull her in for a goodnight kiss.
Heat sizzles between us, but we don’t get carried away.
When the patter of tiny feet can be heard in the distance, I break our kiss all too soon. I brush my thumb along her lips to wipe off any trace just as Julia arrives. “Sorry,” I mutter for my haste. “Van’s heading to bed early as she was almost asleep on the couch when I came in. I told her I would take care of Jules for the night.”
“It’s not a problem, Vince.”
Kissing her quickly once more, I whisper, “Thanks.” Just in time before Julia rounds the corner from the hall.
“Ready to go?” she eagerly asks the room as she loves going for rides.
“Sure, squirt. Let’s go. When we get back, it’s bath time for you,” I warn.
“Okay…” she drags out. She loves the bath but doesn’t always like that bedtime follows.
