Page 14 of Forever and Always
He hesitated, his gaze flickering between my eyes and the ground. “Do you… want to hang out again?”
A surge of joy erupted within me. “Definitely, Bobby. I’ll call you soon.”
His smile was radiant as I turned to leave. As I drove away, I couldn’t shake the feeling of anticipation. The day ahead held its challenges, but the promise of our next meeting was a bright star on the horizon.
* * *
A grin crept across my face as I went about my day, the memory of Bobby calling me “beast” a constant source of amusement. The nickname, once a descriptor of my physicality, had morphed into a term of endearment that felt oddly fitting. Beneath the imposing exterior lurked a heart that yearned for connection, for softness.
I wondered if Bobby saw past the facade, if he glimpsed the vulnerability hidden beneath the tough exterior. Perhaps it didn’t matter. His acceptance, his love, was a balm to my soul, regardless of the image he held.
A delicate balance was required. I wanted to be present, to shower him with affection, but I also recognized the importance of giving him space. The hours without him stretched, each moment an anticipation of our next encounter. His laughter, his touch, his spirit - they were becoming an indispensable part of my world.
* * *
A week without Bobby felt like an eternity. The silence betweenus was a tangible thing, a void that needed filling. With a surge of anticipation and a touch of nervousness, I decided to break the quiet.
ME: Hey my little prince, how’s life been treating you?
The message felt casual, but my heart pounded in my chest. Almost instantly, his reply popped up.
BOBBY: It’s going well, beast.
A simple response, but it sent a jolt of electricity through me. I grinned, the thrill of his quick response a welcome surprise.
ME: Glad to hear that, my little prince. I was thinking, maybe we could grab dinner this weekend? Sunday, maybe? I know a great restaurant downtown.
Anticipation gnawed at me as I hit send. Minutes felt like hours as I waited for his reply. When my phone buzzed, my heart skipped a beat.
BOBBY: That sounds great, beast. But only if you promise to wear a suit and tie.
A playful smirk crept across my face. The challenge intrigued me.
ME: Deal. I’ll wear a suit, but add a leather jacket with it.
The perfect compromise. A suit to show respect, a leather jacket to maintain my edge. I made a reservation for Sunday evening and texted Bobby the confirmation.
BOBBY: See you Sunday, beast.
His reply was short and sweet, but the underlying excitement was clear. As I put down my phone, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this was just the beginning of something special.
* * *
As I slid into the booth, Bobby’s eyes widened in surprise, taking in the entirety of my outfit. A smirk played on his lips. “Wow, you look… different,” he managed to say.
A surge of satisfaction coursed through me. “Figured I’d dress up, but still be myself,” I replied, pulling out his chair.
The waitress arrived, our orders a blur of words and expectations. Once she left, I turned my attention back to Bobby. “So, how’s the wedding planning going?”
He nodded, a serious expression crossing his face. “It’s going good. How about you?”
“Just the usual,” I replied, a playful glint in my eye. “Traffic stops, radio calls, and… checking in on my little prince.”
Bobby chuckled as the waitress returned with our drinks. He took a sip, a mischievous glint in his eye. “I’ve noticed.” His gaze lingered on me, and I felt a familiar warmth spread through me.
Our conversation flowed effortlessly, the tension of the past week melting away. As we dug into our meal, I couldn’t help but notice the way Bobby’s eyes kept straying to me. His admiration was palpable, and it fueled the fire within me.
After we’ve eaten, a spontaneous belch escaped my lips. I quickly covered my mouth. “Excuse me, little prince,” I apologized, my cheeks flushing.
