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She tilted her head as she met his gaze. “It's weird being here… together.”
His expression softened. “We’re hanging out, Leah. Don’t overthink it. You did that a lot back in high school. Relax.”
She rubbed her forearms. “I’m trying to. Being here brings back many memories. Painful memories.”
He sighed. “I didn’t give you a good reason why I left did I?”
“You wanted to play football. You said it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
He pinched the bridge of his nose. “That was part of it, Leah. Let’s face it. We were kids. I didn’t understand what love was, much less how to recognize it for myself.”
She raised an eyebrow. “So, you really thought leaving was best?”
“At the time I did.”
She set her palms flat on the table. “You know what? The past is the past. We’re both doing well and we’re still friends. Right? How many exes can still say that?”
“Few, so we’re the exception.”
They high-fived each other.
Leah leaned back in her chair. “I’m glad I came.”
“Me too. We should do this again sometime. As friends?”
Leah snuck a lemon-pepper wing from his plate. “Only if you promise to share your food.”
“I could have ordered you some, but you insist on stealing.”
“I would never do that to you.”
“Yeah right.” His eyes gleamed.
For the rest of their time together, Leah enjoyed herself without thinking too much on their past together. A much-matured man sat across from her compared to the jock she’d dated in high school. Leah laughed harder than she had in a long time.
Cole had been on her mind since their photo shoot. The way he held her when they danced was enchanting. Leah took another sip of water, feeling warmth spread through her. Never in a million years did she think she would like Cole more than a friend would, and now she was here with Seth. He was another story.
“You ready to go?” Seth asked.
Leah noticed he was standing and extending his hand out to her. She had zoned out, and they were finished and ready to leave. She gave half a smile, clasped his hand, and stood to her feet. His thumb grazed over her knuckles.
For a moment, Leah took in the sight of Seth. She raised her chin to meet his stare. His smile used to make her heart flutter. She slipped her hand out of his and adjusted her purse on her shoulder, while Seth opened the door for her. Leah twirled around to face him as they stood on the sidewalk.
“Heading home?” he asked.
“Not yet, I need to stop by my store.” She smiled. “I had fun, Seth.”
“I did too.”
Leah took a step back but stopped when he touched her shoulder.
He held out his arms. “Can I get a hug?”
Leah tilted her head to the side. She drew closer. “Even though you accused me of stealing?”
She embraced him. His height towered over her, but his strong arms held her close. Leah’s breath hitched as more memories dashed through her mind. Seth had always hugged her before kissing her goodbye. Leah broke their embrace and stepped back.
“I’ll see you around.” She waved goodbye.
