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“So that’s what you and Cole were discussing when I overheard you.”
“Yes. He thinks I should stop helping her financially, and continuing to do so sends the wrong message to her. Like there’s a chance we’ll get back together.”
Tiffany searched his face. “Is there?”
“No. It was over the moment she cheated on me and didn’t have the decency to end our relationship first,” he said vehemently. “Make no mistake, I don’t harbor any feelings for Debra, but I also don’t wish her ill will. She’s down right now, and I’m trying to help out. That’s it.”
“I hear what you’re saying, and it’s admirable you’d want to help her through a difficult time, but…does she still have feelings for you?”
“I can’t answer that. I have no idea if she’s hoping for more than my monetary support, but that’s all I’m giving.”
“And how long is that?”
“I don’t know. Cole and my dad have been pretty vocal about their opinion. They think she’s taking advantage of me.”
“And what do you think?” she said quietly.
“I made a promise, Tiffany. I can’t break it. That’s not who I am.”
She placed a hand on his shoulder. “I get it, but
surely you don’t think it’s feasible to help her indefinitely—do you?”
“Of course not. It was only until she got back on her feet.”
“Maybe you should check in. You know, see how she’s doing. Maybe she’s already looking for a job.”
Ivan nodded. His gaze held hers for several moments. Finally he said, “I will, but I don’t want to talk about Debra anymore. There’s something else you need to know.”
With a deep breath, she said, “I’m listening.”
He took her hand and held it suspended between them before he raised it to his lips and kissed it. He lowered it, but didn’t let go.
“It was apparent to me after you left the community center the other day that I didn’t make my intentions clear. I guess I’m out of practice, so let me rectify that oversight immediately. Tiffany, would you like to go out on a date with me tomorrow night?”
Tiffany could feel relief and then happiness flitter across her face.
“Yes,” she replied. “I’d love to go out on a date with you—and I’m very glad you’re single.”
He grinned. “Does that mean you won’t feel guilty the next time we almost kiss?”
“Who said I felt guilty?”
“Your face is very expressive.”
“Okay, maybe I did feel guilty, but I don’t now,” she clarified.
“Good, because I’ve wanted to do something else since I arrived.”
Before Tiffany could ask what, Ivan’s lips descended on hers.
What started out as an exploratory kiss grew more intimate. He kissed her with a confidence, as though he’d done so a thousand times before. Then he tightened his hold to bring her closer still. It blew her mind.
Tiffany did what she had longed to do since the day she met him. She rubbed the back of his head with the palm of her hand. It was smooth, like she had imagined. Being in his arms, and knowing that she had every right to do so, produced a rush of adrenaline. Tiffany was so elated, she could hardly stand still.
Ivan broke their kiss and released her. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to come on so strong, it’s just that…I’ve thought of nothing else for a very, very long time.”
Tiffany stared at him in wonder. “You didn’t. I wasn’t trying to get away.” She laughed. “I was just…antsy. I think I’ve wanted to kiss you like that since the day we met.”
