Finally, Evan consented to meet him. I couldn't help being nervous for both of them, but to my delight. Barry knew more about computers than I had anticipated. Once their conversation turned to that, they were both at it around Evan's computer and I felt like a third wheel on my own date. They took great delight in showing each other different Internet sites and showing each other shortcuts.
"Excuse. me," I said. "but weren't we talking about going to the movies tonight after we had something quick to eat? What are we supposed to eat, a health bar?" I asked with my hands on my hips, nodding at the clock.
"Oh,' Barry said. "Sorry." I laughed.
It's all right. I just started to feel lonely," I said, and they both laughed, after which Evan immediately looked guilty for stealing Barry away.
"Sorry," he said. too.
"There's nothing for you to apologize far. Evan. Why don't you come out with us?" I suggested.
It put such terror in his eyes, he couldn't respond for a moment. He looked at Barry and at me and started to shake his head.
"I know your wheelchair folds up and goes in the car trunk, so don't use that as an excuse," I warned.
"Sure," Barry said. "Come along with us. You'll love this movie."
"I can't. I..."
"Have a date on the Internet?" I punched at him. He turned crimson. "I'm sorry," I said quickly. "I didn't mean..."
"No, no, it's all right. I did promise to chat with someone. but..."
"You'll come along?" Barry asked.
Evan looked at me.
"Please come. Evan," I pleaded, and he took a breath and nodded. "Okay."
"Great."
"I've got to prepare a bit," he said.
"We'll wait for you in the living room," I said and Barry and I left him.
"Thanks for doing that. Barry," I said.
"He's great. No problem," Barry told me and I kissed him.
It turned out to be a wonderful evening. Evan's interest and excitement in everything we did and saw made both Barry and me feel good, It was almost like taking a child out and watching him experience things you took for granted,
When we came home. I made us all hot chocolate with whipped cream and we sat around and talked about the movie for a while, Then Evan, looking at me first, excused himself, thanking Barry, and wheeled to his room to let us have some time together. Barry staved later than ever. I was concerned for him, but he insisted. When we began to kiss. I took his hand and stood up, leading him out of the living room, up the stairs, and into my bedroom.
"The ice is a lot more slippery in here. Rose," he said when I sat on my bed and still held his hand. "Stopping might be impossible."
"I'm not afraid," I said. "I'd slide anywhere with you."
He laughed and knelt down before me, putting his head on my lap while I stroked his hair.
"You're trembling," I said, feeling it.
"In anticipation." he replied.
He stood up slowly, leaned over to kiss me, and we started to make love.
"You're so beautiful. Rose," he said. "but you're so casual and down to earth, you make me feel comfortable. People say beauty is only skin-deep, but it's not true with you. Yours is inside and out. I can't imagine caring for anyone more than I care for you. I love you so much, it makes my heart ache and stops me cold wherever I am and whatever I'm doing. I must look stupid with this silly smile on my face, seeing your face before me no matter who or what is in front of me."
"I hope you look stupid forever and ever then." I said. He laughed and held me for a moment before bringing his lips to mine and then slowly, in graceful motions, helping me take off my clothing and taking off his. "I came prepared," he whispered. "Just in case we found ourselves on the ice."