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"We should probably get going before our cop friend comes knocking again," I respond with a warm smile and a kiss on her forehead before sliding into the driver's seat.
As I settle in, she pulls her shirt over her head, turning to me with a raised eyebrow.
"Aren't you going to put your shirt on?"
Feigning innocence, I ask, "Why? Is the view too distracting?" I flash her a teasing grin, enjoying the light blush that creeps onto her cheeks.
"I'd rather not comment on that," she retorts, playfully shoving my shoulder.
We both break into laughter.
“I'd put on my shirt, too, if only I knew where it was,” I tell her.
And, after a futile search, I assure her it's okay.
"I'll drop you off, then make a dash for it back to my place. Hopefully, no one will see me in this state." I add, flexing dramatically.
She chuckles, then softly tells me that she should be the only one privileged enough to see me shirtless. She offers to drive herself home after I stop by my place.
She is feeling better, and she’s eager to regain a bit of independence. I agree, the car purrs to life, and we leave the empty lot behind.
As I navigate the quiet streets, I steal glances at Kate. Something about her seems off - distracted or maybe worried. I can't quite put my finger on it.
"Are you okay, Kate?" I ask.
Her eyes meet mine, a touch of apprehension that wasn't there before.
"Do... Do you really want to give us a chance?"
Her question catches me off guard, and a cold feeling washes over me. Is she having doubts?
"Of course I do. Are you... are you unsure about us?" I ask, the words coming out in a rush.
A tightening in my chest reveals my fear that the spark we felt might have been only momentarily for her. But she surprises me once more.
"It's not that," she confesses, "I trust you and enjoyed tonight, but... my ex cheating on me still hurts. I'm not sure if I'm ready yet."
I continue to drive, reaching out to hold her hand, comforting her with a gentle caress.
"I understand," I say, looking into her eyes, "We can take this slow. I'll show you that you can trust me. I'm committed to this, to you."
She gives me a small, grateful smile, murmuring softly, "Thank you for being patient."
"You're worth the wait, Kate" I tell her sincerely, my heart feeling lighter.
Slowing down the car, I gesture towards a small house tucked away from the street.
"We're here, at my place."
"Is it just you living here?" Kate asks, glancing curiously at the house.
"No, my older sister lives here too," I admit. "When I returned from my deployment, I had trouble finding a job. I finally landed one at the hospital but needed a nearby place. She offered me a room here while I save for my own place."
"Is she going to wonder why you didn't come home last night?" Kate queries, her tone playful yet laced with a hint of concern.
I laugh, reassured by her thoughtful question.
"Honestly, she's probably still sleeping, but I've pulled all-nighters at the hospital, so it won't be unusual for her." I pause for a moment, considering a playful idea. "Or I could tell her the truth, that I spent the night with the woman of my dreams."
