Page 156 of One More Kiss

I stepped in between George and Phoenix, and said, “I got this. I was busy and couldn’t make it to lunch. Go inside, George. I can handle this.”

I looked at him pleadingly, eyes squinting. George seemed to be okay with what I said because he moved away. “If he says anything to piss you off, I’m going to be on him faster than you can blink.”

The threat wasn’t lost on Phoenix and me, so we both nodded. George left the scene and strolled into the house, allowing the screen door to slam shut after him. But I could still see his silhouette right inside the doorway. George wasn’t about to allow Phoenix and I to have any moment of peace. It was both aggravating and endearing. I knew my family loved me and only cared for my wellbeing.

“I’m sorry about that,” I said, “My family can be a bit protective sometimes.”

Phoenix chuckled. “You think? I’m still looking for that answer. And since you didn’t show up for lunch and wouldn’t accept my offer for a ride, I had to follow you. I know it seems off or creepy, but I needed to know if you’d go on that date with me.”

Looking into Phoenix’s eyes, I couldn’t bring myself to lie or to push him away. It was easier to ghost or ignore him. It was an out of sight, out of mind kind of solution, but this was something different. Phoenix stood in front of me, outside of my home, waiting for my answer. I was blown away by his forthcoming personality. Secretly, I liked it, and was satisfied. He did what I wanted him to do. He didn’t give up and kept pursuing.

“I don’t know,” I sighed. “I don’t think I’m what you truly want.”

Phoenix shook his head as if surprised by my answer. “What do you mean by that? If I wasn’t interested or didn’t want you, I wouldn’t be here. You are absolutely breathtaking. I would give anything to spend more time with you. You’re perfect even if you think you aren’t. You just have to believe what I say. I think you’re remarkable.”

I shook my head rebutting the words coming out of Phoenix’s mouth. He thought I was wonderful, but was I? How could he see something my own eyes can’t see?

“You have to take my word for it. Go on this date with me and let me show you how perfect we could be together,” Phoenix pleaded, stepping closer.

He reached out his hand and caressed his thumb slightly on my palm. Jolts of electricity seemed to travel from his body to mine just by a simple touch. I knew way before this that this was love. I wanted more of him, his caresses, his adoration, his love. But would he eventually feel the same way for me, or was I naive to think this could go further?

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