“It doesn’t need to be a conversation.” I take another swig of water. “But also, no. I’m taking the pole dancing lessons for me. I’m not the biggest fan of working out, and it’s a killer workout and helps relieve stress. And yeah, if I happen to gain some confidence in the sex department, then it’s an added bonus.”
He studies me for a moment, his pensive look telling me that he wants to say more, but I don’t think I’m going to let this conversation go on much longer.
“I could show you how I relieve stress, if you want.” He leans forward, his forearms on the counter again.
I cock my head, not sure what direction he just went. “What do you mean exactly?”
He shakes his head. “Oh, shit. No, not that. Fuck. No, I meant rock climbing. If you want to learn how to rock climb, I can show you.”
I can’t help it; I burst out laughing. He’s so cute when he’s flustered.
His answering grin and the way he looks at me sends tingles through my body. “I deserve that.”
“Yes, you do,” I say, still giggling.
“But for real, though. You know I teach classes. I could get us some private time at Squeaky Bum, and I could teach you.”
“Private time?” I ask, dumbfounded.
“Yeah. I mean, we could have some time with the wall without anyone around.”
I’m trying to read his facial expressions, but he’s not giving me much. Is he just being nice-guy Wade? Or did he…
Did he just ask me on a date?
Surely not. What has changed? Why would he suddenly want to date me now?
“Well,” I start, “I’ve always wanted to try rock climbing but have just never gone.”
“It’s addicting.” He smirks.
“And I guess it could be embarrassing as an adult to learn and suck at it when a lot of other people are around. So yeah, private climb time sounds like a great idea.”
He looks confused, shakes his head slightly, then says, “I think you’ll be fine, but it’ll be fun if it’s just the two of us.”
I blink.
He stares back at me.
I gulp.
He still stares at me, like he’s waiting for me to speak.
I nod. “Yeah, sure.” My voice comes out as a rasp.
He grins.
I clear my throat. There must still be some cookie stuck in it.
Wade straightens and knocks on the counter. “Okay, awesome. I’ll text you once I can check the schedule, and we’ll plan a time to rock climb.”
“Uh-huh,” I answer, still a little in shock.
His grin turns cocky. “I won’t bother you any more today, but can I steal a few cookies?”
“Oh. Yeah, help yourself.” I pick up the plate and offer them to him.
He grabs three, then sticks one into his mouth. He chews it, as I walk him to the door.