Chapter 13 - THE FIRST KISS BENEATH THE CHICAGO SNOW
Our first date was simple.
A quiet restaurant overlooking the Chicago River.
No bodyguards at the table.
No expensive gifts.
No expectations.
Just conversation.
Reed asked about Ava.
I asked about his childhood.
He told me stories about his mother.
I told him about Mrs. Perez.
We laughed.
More than I expected.
At the end of the evening, he walked me to my car.
“Can I ask you something?”
I smiled.
“Yes.”
“Would you like to see me again?”
I nodded.
“Yes.”
He stepped closer.
Then stopped.
“May I kiss you?”
My heart raced.
I nodded.
“Yes.”
He kissed me gently.
Nothing rushed.
Nothing demanding.
Just warmth.
When we pulled apart, he rested his forehead against mine.
“I've wanted to do that for a long time.”
I laughed softly.
“So have I.”
May you like
Snow fell softly around us.
And for the first time in years, I wasn't afraid of tomorrow.
