CHAPTER 16
George
‘What else are you hiding in there, George?’
If only she knew . . . We walk back in content, comfortable silence this time.
Leo points out the odd landmark here and there, and I’m glad for it.
It’s nice, this companionship without expectation.
I also can’t take my eyes off her face, especially when she’s animated like this. She’s easy to talk to. Funny.
It reminds me of how I feel when I’m with Jack.
Calm. Still. I’ll have to tell Hope. She’ll be delighted I’m not stuck in my room obsessing over match tapes.
Trying to ‘get a life outside of tennis’ and all that.
But I have to admit it’s been fun. I’ve not thought about the backhand I caught too late or the volley I fluffed in practice. I think that’s a good thing.
She stops and I’m pulled from my thoughts.
‘. . . only if you want to. Or have the time of course.’
I totally missed what she said.
‘Sorry?’
‘Would you mind taking a slightly longer route? Through the Jardin des Tuileries? I haven’t seen the Louvre pyramid lit up in years . . . And now I’m not walking alone through the park . . .’ She trails off, looking up at me. ‘If you don’t need to get back to rest of course?’
I like the idea of protecting her. I like spending time with her even more. So, even though I shouldn’t, I find myself saying, ‘Sure. Lead the way.’ I gesture for her to walk forward and stop myself sneaking a glance at her, quite frankly, fantastic arse.
I’m getting bored of denying to myself that she’s not just hot, but that I’m attracted to her. And the more I speak to her, the stronger it gets. But could she like me? She didn’t seem to at first, something I’m still confused about. I know I’m difficult though.
I’m in my head for the rest of the walk home. Preoccupied. Contemplating.
Plucking up the courage really for the one question I really want to ask her.
Get a grip, man.
——
We get back to the suite, ready to go our separate ways. I know this is my last chance.
‘Leo?’ I call as she walks down the hall. ‘I’ll need a dinner booking tomorrow, please.’
She spins, smiling, and I move closer. ‘Of course. How many shall I book for?’
Pausing as I reach her bedroom, I look down at her. Debating.
Fuck it.
‘Well, two; if you’ll join me?’
She nods, surprised. ‘OK.’
My heart leaps in my chest and my voice is thick as I usher her through the door.
‘Good.’ I close it softly. ‘See you tomorrow, Leo. Sweet dreams.’
Fuck it indeed.