Page 44 of Forever Fascinating

Separate beds – preferably separate rooms. That speaks for itself.

And I hate to even type this… but our plans need to stay between us.

A secret.

I don’t want my parents, my brother, or anyone else dabbling in our growing friendship between us, because they’ve said or done enough before we even met.

I can claim that I’m going to a conference (but if I get sick with some weird, funky disease, you must swear to get my violently-sick-carcass to a hospital and call my parents – please).

What are some of your wish list items? Where would you want to go? Are you a museum person? A cliff diver? Do you want to see ruins? Swim on a beach? Hike on a mountain?

This is me, ready to plan, and just need details.

Your date,

Jana

* * *

Clicking send,she drew in a deep breath and went back to work.

CHAPTER11

VAPOR

Matthew readthe email three times, before he began to reply. His hands were shaking, and he desperately wanted a cigarette right now so badly that he could taste it. He couldn’t stop smiling in amazement.

They were doing this!

At first, when the words had slipped out of his mouth, inviting her to travel with him, for them to go on dates around the world together, explore, and have fun together, he never imagined she would accept.

He figured it was just him, being reckless and careless once again, thinking only of himself… yet here she was, locking arms with him, and ready to take the plunge.

* * *

My lovely Date,

Thank you so much for sending the photo. I just forwarded it to Reaper’s email and will let him know when I go back to the barracks… but for right now? I need to reply back so we can talk openly as much as possible.

You are asking me to be candid and blunt – so I will be – because I don’t want any misunderstandings between us either.

My hands are shaking as I type this because I’m so stupidly happy and excited at the thought of seeing you again and reading your email.

I can’t stand spiders or snakes – so I am perfectly okay with that rule and agree completely. Large, hairy, and kissy… might be describing me someday, but I promise - I will not be too forward and never pressure you.

(You asked for blunt, remember?)

That being said? I’m very attracted to you, so if this is a deal-breaker? I understand.

I want us to talk, travel, and date… and with dating comes kissing eventually. Call me old-fashioned, but I think that displays of emotions should come withsaidemotion.

I hold your hand because we are friends. I kissed you on the cheek because I feel drawn to you… but if I kiss you for real? It’s because I feel it. So, because you barely know me and my beliefs, understanding that this is all so brand-spanking-new between us? You are safe, my friend. I promise not to paw you… which brings me to rule two.

Separate rooms… separate beds. Wholeheartedly agree. If budget doesn’t allow for two rooms, two beds are a must, or I will take the floor, just to be able to go to some faraway land with you.

Binge drinking only in the hotel room – check.

No cigar stores or smokehouses – please. I’m adding this rule for my sanity. If you smell tobacco, drag me in the opposite direction because I’m a weak man. I’m trying to quit and really struggling. It’s been a few days now and I haven’t broken down once.

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