Page 15 of Pieces of Us
“That’s what the janitors are for.”
“No, that’s not really their job.” I bend down to pick up the bag. “I got it.” He just keeps walking, not thanking me or offering to take his own trash from my hands.
We make our way out of the theater, and I pull up the app to order a car.
“Wanna go grab a drink?”
I tuck my phone back into my purse and shake my head. “I’m good. I have a busy day tomorrow with appointments for my friend’s wedding. I just ordered a ride; it will be here in a couple minutes.”
Chase moves closer to me and puts his hands on my hips. I try to back away, but he has a pretty good grip. I’ve been removing his hand from my leg the whole night, and now he thinks he can continue to put his hands on me?
“I’d like to see you again.”
“I’d appreciate it if you remove your hands.” Thank goodness he respects me enough to release me. “Listen, Chase. Tonight was fun, but I’m going to be super busy with my friend’s wedding over the next couple of months, so it wouldn’t be fair of me to agree to anything beyond this evening.”
“I understand, I guess. If I can’t see you again, how about we don’t let this night end? You have a car on the way. We could go back to your place.”
This man is clueless.
“No, thanks, my parents are visiting and staying at my place this weekend. I need to get back to make sure they’re settled in.”
“You’re a very busy girl, Melonie.”
Thank God my car arrives. “Yeah, I’m a busy bee! Well, that’s my car. Thanks for the movie, Chase. I’ll see you around.”
I don’t wait for him to answer. I get into the car and shut the door. I buckle my seatbelt and lean my head back. Linc was wrong. Youcanget to know a guy pretty well on a date at the movies.
I meet the girls Sunday morning at Bostonia, our favorite brunch spot. When I scan the dining room, I see Audrey and Gigi already seated at a table. Gigi sees me first and starts waving, her red waves bouncing.
“Hey, Melonie!” Gigi stands to hug me, followed by Audrey.
“Sorry, I ran a little late.”
“No apology needed. Gigi got here right before you did.” Audrey sits and pulls her tote bag into her lap. I really hope she doesn’t have any binders in there this morning. I’m relieved when she only pulls out a notepad and pen.
“How was your date with Chase last night?” Gigi asks.
“It was horrible. He ate popcorn like an untamed animal, didn’t throw away his trash, and then tried to invite himself home with me.”
“Ew.” Gigi grimaces.
“Sorry you didn’t have a good time.” Audrey places her hand on my arm.
I shrug. “I think I’m going to voluntarily go celibate.”
Gigi’s eyes go wide. “Don’t do that. Even if you don’t want to date, don’t deny yourself sex. Plus, you’re not the one who willhave to deal with a hard-up Melonie. You turn into a monster if you go too long without.”
“I do not!”
“Yeah, you sort of do.” Audrey winces.
“I’m just sick of putting in effort. Dating is exhausting. I just wish I had someone that I could be friends with, but we fuck like animals once a month. All the fun and orgasms without the disappointment.”
At that very moment, our server clears their throat behind me. Dear God. I cover my face in embarrassment. Gigi starts turning red with the laughter she’s trying to fight off. At least Audrey is able to keep her composure long enough to order a round of mimosas and sweet potato doughnuts for the table.
“I’m so embarrassed.” I lower my hands from my face once the server is gone.
Gigi shakes her head. “Never be embarrassed about declaring your wants or needs.”
