“Yes,” I reply. My gaze darts across the space. “I like this place.”
“So…” he says.
“So…” I bite my lip. “My plan is still in motion.”
He’s hurt, and he tries to put on a brave face, but I know him too well. “That’s fine, but just so you know, I’ve been good on my end. I want us to work this out, Gabbie.”
“I know,” I tell him. “We’ve decided to give it a few weeks. This should give me plenty of time to make sure this is what I want to do, and Copenhagen gets a little warmer in April. We’re thinking the third week of April.”
He nods and reaches for a bun from the bread basket. He butters his bun, and doesn’t say a word.
“You know, there’s a big chance that nothing will even happen between us,” I point out, and his gaze lifts to mine, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. “Eli is not keen to get in the middle of this, and you know, if he wants sex, I’m sure there are plenty of gorgeous Dane women who are willing.”
“I bet. I’ve seen the guy,” John says.
“He seems pretty excited about showing me the city, and I’m excited too. I don’t think I’ve ever been on an overseas trip without you before. This will be good for me.”
It’s true. Although, John’s been on quite a few trips for work; events and signings across the world, even Australia. I’ve never been anywhere far without him. Just a few business trips in the states.
“Well, I hope you have a good time, Gabbie,” he says. “And I hope you don’t forget about me and the kids.”
“Here are your appetizers, folks,” our server cheers, completely oblivious as she sets down our salad and Bruschetta. “Enjoy!”
* * *
John is in his den, the kids are at school, and I’m in my loft, laughing my head off.
“Wait until you see this one,” Eli says.
I bite my lip, and wait patiently as he works the towels, his arms busy. I can’t wait to see. I’m like a little kid in front of a magician. What will he show me next?
“Ta-dah!” he says, and shows me his towel monkey.
“That’s impressive,” I cheer. “The skills you acquire working as a cruise ship cabin maid… who knew?”
“Cabin steward,” he corrects me. “And I also have excellent cleaning skills. You’ll see when you come over. My place is spotless.”
“Looking forward to it,” I say. “I’m kind of a clean-freak too, so we have that in common.”
“Yeah, I’m freakishly clean for a creative type. Usually, artists are messy.”
“Me too,” I say. Yes, my house is clean and tidy, but my life is a complete mess. “Do me another one,” I ask. I just can’t get enough — can’t get enough of him — I don’t want him to go. I want to hold on to this feeling forever.
“This one is special just for you,” he says. “I’ve actually just learned this one,” he tells me as his arms move unbelievably fast. “Swans, monkeys, butterflies, those are easy but this…”
I wait eagerly. How can a person crash into your life, and make you feel like a kid again? What happens after Copenhagen? I promised John that I would end things with Eli after, but I can’t bear the thought of ever saying goodbye to him. How can I say goodbye to this?
“Ta-dah!”
I squint a little and study the towel animal, not quite sure… but the long curling trunk gives it away. “You made me an elephant!”
“Yeah, learned that one just for you.”
Fuck.
“You like it?”
Fuck. I think I’m falling in love.
