“Sorry,” Melody says sheepishly. “He’s waiting for me to set up the TV. I’m surprised he’s survived as long as he has without it.”
Aide laughs. “It’s fine. See you around.”
“I’ll be right back,” I say to Melody. “I can sort the TV for you.”
She goes to say something, but I gently push Aide out the front door before she can. When we’re outside, I walk with him to the fire truck.
“I can see why you’re tied up in knots, man,” Aide says as he slaps me on the shoulder. “She seems great, and smokin’ hot!” I punch him not so gently on the arm, and he laughs. “Hey! That hurt!”
“It was meant to!” I tell him, a hint of humor in my voice.
“Maybe it’s me she likes. I did get a kiss on the cheek, after all. I didn’t see her kissing you.”
“Don’t let Blaire hear you say that,” I tell him, referring to his girlfriend, who I know he’s crazy about. “How is she, anyway?”
He smiles at the mention of her name. “She’s good. Great, actually.”
“Thought so.” I roll my eyes, knowing he’s just screwing with me.
“Do you want to grab a drink when I get off?”
I smirk at him. “I can’t. Melody is cooking me dinner.”
He raises his eyebrows. “Really? Well, enjoy! Don’t do anything I wouldn’t.” He climbs into the fire truck and raises his hand in a wave. “Catch you later.”
I watch as he drives away before taking a deep breath and walking slowly back to Melody’s. Despite wanting to spend time with her, I can’t deny I’m nervous. Roman will go to bed after dinner and then we’ll be alone. I hope I don’t fuck it up.