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I’ll never tire of her authentic expressions. Capturing her pink glow will remind me she’s real.
“May I take a photo?”
She nods yes, and open my phone’s camera. During difficult moments, I'll have her gorgeous smile to ground me. Penelope's an undeserved holiday present, pressing her lips next to my mouth until I click.
After the selfie snaps, her dirty words flow into my ear.
“Asparagus is my favorite. I lick the tip before swallowing whole.”
Check, please.
11
Penelope
Bentley’s passed a crucial relationship test. He’s willing to show vulnerability and share his emotional pain. My hearts swoons when his thumb brushes my temples and his lips tease mine. Remembering past moments with his girlfriend is normal, and I’d never fault him for expressing how he feels.
“Did you grow up in New York?”
“Syracuse. I was accepted into Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School after graduating from Syracuse University.”
“I’ve never been, but I’d like to visit someday.”
“You’ll love it. My friend Tucker’s a chef.”
“Is he single too?”
Bentley scolds me, and his eyes narrow.
“You’re too good for him.”
“Just teasing. I’m not interested in anyone other than you.”
His lips curl into a smile, and I resist the urge to jump across the table and kiss him.
“You’re a beautiful woman, but I don’t want to rush into anything. I’m anti-cheating and expect you to be mine exclusively. I've handled enough bitter divorces to know infidelity only leads to heartache.”
“Do you have any siblings?”
“A younger sister, Candice. Am I on trial, Miss Parks?”
“Sorry, I…”
“I’m kidding. You’d make an excellent paralegal. Why haven’t you pursued additional education?”
“Do you want the list?”
My parents’ income is low enough to qualify me for a student loan, but piling up thousands in debt is risky. I’m considering moving back home to the comfort and safety of family. A small piece of my heart hopes Ted will show up on my doorstep and beg for a second chance.
Delicious looking salads place on the table, and I fold my napkin several times. Bentley places his hands on top of mine, interrupting my mind’s negative pattern.
“You miss home?”
“Yeah. I underestimated how lonely I’d feel being single in the city. My track record of attracting unethical bosses and inability to afford paralegal school are signs I can’t ignore.”
“It would be a shame to waste your talent. Several large firms in Atlanta offer scholarship opportunities.”
“Maybe.”
