“I know that some things may no longer be possible between us,” he says in a serious, even voice. “But I’m hoping we can figure out which are and which aren’t, and if nothing comes out of it, then fine, we can both move on.”
We lock eyes.
“For starters, we can still talk and eat dessert together,” he says in a lighter tone.
I smile.
“Yes, that’s good, I guess. But things could’ve been much different. I could’ve been with someone else by now,” I say.
He examines my face.
“Are you with someone else?”
“No.”
“Were you?” he asks and takes another drag before narrowing his eyes and releasing a long stream of smoke.
“I think you know the answer.”
A soft grin brushes his lips.
“Any paid help?” he asks, still smiling.
“No,” I say, lowering my eyes and focusing on my mousse.
I sink my spoon into the creamy dessert and bring it to my lips. The aroma fills my mouth.
“What happened to your old friend?” he asks.
He blows out the smoke and puts out the cigarette.
“Abel?” I ask as he takes a bite of chocolate cake.
“Mm-hmm,” he says, grinning around the spoon. “You said he was running a promotion,” he adds. “What was that all about?”
He glances at me just as the warmth of a blush rolls over my cheeks.
“Long story. Alcohol was involved. And a party.”
“Is he still around?” he asks, no longer smiling.
He sets the spoon on the plate.
“Yes, he is,” I say, smirking.
“What’s so funny?” he asks, not at all amused.
“I just like to fuck with you.”
His eyes brighten.
“Really? Can’t you do it in some other way?”
“Haha. Funny,” I say, pointing in his direction with my spoon.
I take another mouthful of mousse.
“He is off the market,” I say.