It’s the moment of truth. “Yes,” I say on a sigh. And I do. I feel more deeply for him in the two and a half months we’ve been together than I ever did in the two years I was with Dawson. He’s my home even when he’s staying at his place. He’s the first, and last, person I talk to every single day. It may be quick to some people, especially since most of our time is spent within the walls of Life in Ink, but who gives a shit what other people think. My family loves him, and I do too.
“I love you too, Sophia,” he pulls me into his arms and seals his lips to mine. It’s a good thing we are the only ones here and the shop is mostly dark. This kiss is one for the record books. There’s no tongue, but it’s probably the most passionate kiss I’ve ever received. This man has seared himself into my soul, and I don’t ever want to lose him. He pulls away before things get carried away. “And, I’m not just saying that. You are my person, and I’m not letting you go.”
If I had a quarter for every time Adrian has made me swoon, I’d be rich. My heart is racing and I fear it may beat right out of my chest. Catching my breath, I lean against his chest. “I should probably go before the girls freak out. I’ll text you when I leave. Maybe you can come over?”
“Yes,” he pumps his fist in the air and jumps up and down. “I get to wake up to your beautiful grumpy self in the morning.”
“You are such a dork,” I laugh. Standing on tiptoes, I kiss him on the cheek. “I’ll see you in a few hours.”
“Be careful,” he stares down at me. “If you’re too tired to drive, call me and I’ll pick you up.”
“Will do.” I walk toward the door. When I look over my shoulder, he’s still watching me. Gah, the attention he gives me is more than I could ask for. With him, I know I’m enough. I don’t have to pretend to be anything else.
* * *
This coffee shop is as clever as its name. Brews Clue’s is cute and small, but not too small. There’s still plenty of room to move around without bumping into anyone. We’re the only people still here, and I can feel the employees stare at us, willing us to get up so they can close the store.
Amelia, Bianca, and I are the only people who actually read the book. It looks like Adrian was correct earlier. It’s not that Charleigh doesn’t like to read; she just doesn’t have the time. Any free time she has is consumed by Jake and Layla when they have her for the weekend. It’s a shame they didn’t read it because it was hysterical and steamy. How to Date a Douchebag is definitely one of my favorite reads this year.
“So, Sophie,” Bianca sits up in her chair. “How are things going with you and Adrian?”
Charleigh laughs, louder than what I think is warranted. “How do you think it’s going?” She crosses her arms. “I swear, every time I go to the break room they are making out and acting like two teenagers that can’t control themselves.”
“I’m not even going to broach that one,” Bianca smirks at Charleigh. “I seem to remember someone being lovestruck when they first started dating.”
Tonya, Jake’s ex and the mother of his child, laughs. “I think there is something about new relationships that make us completely lose our shit and not care how we act.”
Amelia groans. “You and Reaf still act like that, so I don’t know what you mean by ‘new’ relationships.”
Tonya throws a piece of her muffin at her cousin, and Amelia ducks.
This is getting out of control. “Things are going great with Adrian. I may have let the three-word sentence slip today.” My cheeks are warm, and I’m certain I’m blushing. I’m not embarrassed by it. I never thought I would feel that way about a guy. The way of an old spinster was the direction I was set on heading toward. Even though I liked Adrian for far longer than I want to admit, I didn’t think he’d ever show an interest in me.
“What did he say?” Charleigh leans forward, eager to hear what happened.
“You know exactly what he said,” Bianca laughs. “He’s been gaga over her for a long time. I think he fell in love with her before they even started dating.”
I’m not sure about that, but I know I was definitely in lust with him before that night we had drinks. It was a little pathetic how much I paid attention to him when I thought he wasn’t looking. It definitely felt like those days when you’re in high school and you like someone and aren’t sure how to approach them. Luckily for me, he came to me before I could gather up the courage to seek him out.
My phone dings with a message.
Adrian: Are you ever going to head back? I want to show you just how much I love you. ;)
Rolling my eyes, I glance up at the girls. They all know what’s coming. Charleigh is the first to speak up. “Get out of here, and cuddle up with your boyfriend. We all know that’s who is texting you.”
“Are you sure?” I feel horrible for running out on them.
“Yep,” Tonya answers. “They are about to kick us out anyway. Go hang out with your man.”
“Thanks,” I grab my book, and put in my bag. “Let me know the date for next month. And the book we’re reading.” I make eye contact with each and every one of them. “This time actually read the book. Who knows… you could learn some things, if you know what I mean.” I wink at them and walk out of the coffee shop.
Sophia: I’m leaving now. I should be home in forty-five minutes.
Adrian: Yes! I’ll be there in an hour.
The hair on the back of my neck rises, and that feeling I haven’t had in a while is back in full force. Brushing it off, I rush to my car, get in and lock the doors. Nothing is going to keep me from Adrian right now. Even a pesky feeling that is most likely nothing.
* * *