AllFreeNovel
Share Us
19
DITA
“This reverse date thing was one of my best ideas ever,” Misha bragged. He really thought it was cute to let the girl choose a place to eat. Luckily, I wasn’t picky and happy he wasn’t either.
With my chin settled in the palm of my hand, I took my eyes off the live singer and turned to glacier orbs. “You didn’t plan anything. All you did was drive us here.”
Easy-going Misha was affable. Asking me to show him some Cuban culture, I directed us to a cute bar that extended from salted nuts and shots to cocktails and finger food. One that had allured me earlier to grab a drink sometime. Having established the move, I’d wanted to dive back into my roots. Decanted with warm, cozy, and bright colors, the keywords of the scenery’s ambiance, it reminded me of old times. Abuela’s home had felt exactly the same.
Having decided on finger food, I dipped a crusted chicken wing in mojo sauce. The tangy, sour flavor hit my tongue.
“Like I said, best idea ever.”
I intercepted hazy eyes. Misha was looking at me as if I was wrapped in a seasoned, crusted batter too. “These hips aren’t just in my DNA.”
“Can’t say I mind. Makes me wonder…” He squinted his examining eyes.
I licked my lips. I wasn’t a lady when I went about good food. Ex-cuse me. “Makes you wonder what?”
“If I presumed this correctly.” He came forward, bent over his folded arms. “I don’t think you’re a judgmental person. Are you, Dita?”
“Not really. Unless you’re going to tell me this place stinks.”
Misha’s lips twitched. Although it did not develop into his usual wide smile. Serious was his approach now. He even cleared his throat, announcing business.
“Look, I’m not shy about my intentions. Nor am I going to apologize,” he started.
“Okay.”
He picked at the woven placemat underneath his plate. “I like things… exciting. Let’s just call it that. Now, either you’re going to stay and eat that enchilada together with me after this, or you’re going to tell me to take a hike.”
“Whatever it is, I’m sure I paid half for this so I’m not going anywhere, sharp-shooter.” As long as he wasn’t coaxing me into rock climbing.
“Dita.” My name was oil on his vocal cords. “I’m your guide. If you let me, I’ll introduce you to a whole new world.”
“Like, cosplay?”
I did not understand where he was headed.
Misha grinned. “No, but if you’re into that, I’d be happy to help you with that, too.”
I scrunched my lips. “I think Steph would be offended.”
Now he laughed. His hands came up in surrender. “Oh, but I’m not pushing you into that direction, sweetheart. I liked that skimpy thing she called a bikini.” I groaned. Then groaned harder when he added, “I think all of us liked that.”
My heart spiked for a hot second. Not everyone. Ares had jumped up pretty fast, making his way out of there. Pushed the button of his ejection seat.
Safety initiated. Aboard mission bubble butt.
“You’re thinking about him.”
It wasn’t a question. More like a statement. One I confirmed with silence.
The subject of conversation was beyond my remit. There was not much choice then to distance myself from Ares. I would avoid another encounter at all costs. Questioning my own sanity and accountability tainted my latest decisions.
Least of my worries was the change of accommodation.
He sealed my hand with his. Misha had a soothing impression. He better not open his mouth and—dammit, Misha.
