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All of a sudden, there’s a thick tension in the air.
Brad and Kate sort of look between one another.
“No,” He says. “It’s called a subject change. Anyway.”
I scoff. “You really are an asshole, aren’t you? We’re just having a conversation here. Four people. And you’re so great you don’t have to answer the questions you want to.”
Kate and Brad look stunned.
Like no one has ever challenged this man in his life. I didn’t get pulled over from my calm drink at the bar to be pushed around.
There’s an awkward standoff between the two of us.
Jack takes a big swig of his drink and doesn’t say much.
"Yeah, I'm not really much of a surfer," Kate finally says. "But it sounds like fun. I'm more into yoga and meditation.”
“Clearly it’s working, whatever you’re doing,” Brad says, flashing his eyes at Kate.
"I'm really looking forward to the classes and getting to know everyone,” Kate says.
"Same here," I say. "I'm excited to advance my skills and see what works for me."
"Me too," Brad says, looking over at Kate. "I'm always up for trying new things and meeting new people. Especially when it involves getting in touch with my inner self. So Kate, have you ever been surfing?”
“No, never,” she grins.
“Well I’d love to take you sometime. After class or whatever.”
I can't help but roll my eyes at Brad's attempt at flirting with Kate. It's clear that he's enjoying shooting his shot with whichever woman is around. And you know what? Good for him. Honestly, I'm relieved his focus is off of me. I don't have any romantic feelings towards Brad and I can't pretend otherwise.
But as the night goes on, I find myself looking more and more at Jack. I can't help but wonder if he's still thinking about…whatever that was we shared, too. I can see the way he looks at me, the way his eyes linger just a little too long when our gaze connects. And I can't shake the feeling that he's not as into Kate as he is into me.
Finally, we about finish our drinks.
“You know what? I’m going to head back to the hostel I’m staying at. See you all at the yoga retreat tomorrow then?”
“Brad,” Jack says. “I regret I have some business to take care of tonight, and I can’t do the gentlemanly thing and walk Kate home. Would you be a good sport and do the honors? I’d really appreciate it.”
“Uh, yeah, I guess.”
“It’s okay. I can walk home alone.”
Jack shakes his head.
“I’m afraid I can’t allow that. This is a safe town but you just never know, once the sun goes down. Thanks, Kate, I had a wonderful time.”
Jack hugs Kate goodbye and we watch Brad and Kate head out on their walk through the small town in the dark.
“You’re gonna let Brad steal your girl just like that?” I joke.
“I think we both know she’s not the one I want.”
“Well that is unfortunate for you…because this afternoon was a fluke. I’m not usually like…that.”
“You mean you don’t invite handsome strangers into your hotel room every day and ride their--”
“Jack!” I cut him off. “Come on now.” I nod toward Antolin, who is within earshot. “Besides, I did not invite anyone. You barged in as I recall.”
