“It’s weird how slow things go these days,” she says with a deep sigh. “It’s like my days are ten times longer ever since I finally accepted that I want to be with this man.”
“I know what you mean.” I smile to myself and think of the afternoons training with Peter. Those days lasted a lifetime. I can close my eyes and go back to them still. “Can I ask you something?”
“Sure, sweetie. You sound kind of tired though. Isn’t it late?”
“Not too late, but I’m okay. I’ve got coffee.”
“Don’t drink too much or you won’t be able to sleep.”
I lean my head back, smiling. I’m weary to my bones and I doubt sleep will be an issue when I get a chance.
“When did you know? With Luca, I mean. When were you sure?”
She’s quiet for a second. Then she clears her throat. “I was never sure. Not until he kissed me.” She laughs and I can hear her adjusting something on her end. “There was this shooting and he jumped on top of me to save my life. He nearly got himself killed in the process. I think that’s when I knew.”
“God, it only took a shooting.”
“You know how it goes. There haven’t been any more shootings since that one though, so it’s okay.”
“Right, sure, that one was fine, no biggie. Just one casual shooting.”
“Why are you asking about that?”
I look across the boat and spot Peter lurking nearby. He’s doing his best to read a newspaper, but I know he’s watching me, just making sure I’m safe. It’s annoying, but also kind of sweet.
“No reason. Just curious, I guess.”
“Well, listen, I’ve got to go. I love you Adrienne. You’re safe and okay, right? Peter’s not being a total prick?”
“He’s a prick, but he’s also okay.”
“Good. We’ll see you soon. When things get better here, you’re coming straight home. I’m so, so jealous you get to lounge around Greece, but I bet you’re getting homesick.”
“You have no idea. I love you too.”
“Bye!”
She hangs up. I stare at the phone and close my eyes. Was there a moment for me, when I realized I could be more when I’m with Peter? Will there be a moment still when I understand that I can’t be anything without him? Maybe we’ll stay stuck in this dance, forever caught by circumstance.
“How’s she doing?” Peter sits down beside me.
“Good. They’re still in the honeymoon phase.”
He smiles, head tilted. “I’d say that never lasts, but I’m starting to wonder.”
I grin back at him despite myself. “Cut it out, you weirdo. Ever since you started calling me agapi mou, it’s like you really think you’re in love.”
His smile doesn’t falter and he doesn’t deny it and I feel like something might crack in my heart. That silence stretches for a moment until he picks up my coffee and takes a sip before handing it back to me. I hold it in my hands and feel the warmth in my fingers.
“We need to contact Reina when we’re back in the city. I want you there for that.” He puts a hand on my thigh. “But if something goes wrong, if things get more dangerous, I’m going to drag you to the airport by your hair and throw you on the first flight back to the States if I have to. Can you make that deal with me?”
“I’m not going to promise I’ll leave willingly.”
“Doesn’t have to be willingly, little killer. Just so long as you’re safe.”
I shake my head, smiling. “Idiot. Asshole.”
“Is that a yes?”