Chapter 8 Thomas
THOMAS
The superhero underwear did their job after all. Talking with Hannah that little bit was enough to make me feel on top of the world. However, I know this, I’m not wearing my special underwear until that night though. Gotta save their power for the good stuff.
There’s still a week before the street dance, but I want to talk to her more, maybe even see her again before then.
I debated whether or not to keep texting her after last night, but I can’t help it.
I want to talk to her more, show her I’m interested in her.
I’ve just finished my shift, and am sitting on the couch when I send her another text.
Me
Hey, Hannah. How was your day?
I fiddle with a loose string on my sweatpants, feeling oddly nervous as I wait for a response.
I shouldn’t be nervous, yet I am. Ever since I opened myself to the idea of a relationship, of the potential of something more in my life after nearly giving up hope, I let myself dream for a moment, and it’s her. She’s all I can think about.
Hannah
It was good. I had the day off, so I ran a few errands, and took my Grandma to an appointment. What about you?
I smile as I read her message. It’s nothing special, but it's a conversation.
Me
Work, thankfully not too busy of a day. Now I’m snuggled up on the couch with my bestie.
Hannah
Your bestie?
I chuckle to myself. She probably thinks I’m curled up on the couch with one of my brothers or a guy from the department. I snap a photo of Arson as he lies on his back, sleeping with his stuffed bear in his mouth, and send it off to Hannah.
Me
He’s pretty lazy when he’s not on duty.
Hannah
Oh my god, I can’t get over how cute he is.
Me
He’s a lover, that’s for sure, but he knows how to protect, too.
Hannah
He must have had a busy day today if he’s that tired.
Me
Nah, I threw the ball for him in my backyard for like thirty minutes. That burnt his energy real quick.
Hannah
How long have you had him?
Me
Since he was a pup and in training. He’s always been there for me.
I look down at my dog again, thankful that I’ve had him to fill some of the void of loneliness for the last five years.
Hannah
Do you have any other pets?
Fuck, I’m so happy she’s actually continuing the conversation.
Me
Nope, just him. Though, I think he’d be fine if I got a cat or something. My sister-in-law, Josie, has a cat, and he loves her. Do you have any pets?
Hannah
Nope, but I always wanted a dog. We never had one when I was a kid, and then after my parents died it would have been hard on my Grandma to care for a pet, and me. Now, I don’t have the time. Trying to train a puppy while working twelve-hour shifts sounds difficult. Maybe someday, though.
Me
You can borrow Arson if you want. He’s potty trained, and a great cuddler.
Hannah
Haha, I’m sure he would much rather stay with you, but thanks for the offer.
Me
I’m serious
Sometimes, my brother Jason will take him for a few hours, and his daughters will run him ragged and then he curls up on the couch with them for hours during their princess movie nights. It’s adorable.
Hannah
I’m sure it is, but it’s okay, thanks for the offer
Me
Next time we end up on a call, I’ll make sure you get some Arson loving.
Hannah
I’d like that
I try to think of something else to bring up, to continue the conversation, but I’m drawing a blank. I can’t think of anything. I’m about to start looking up conversation starters on the internet, when the bubbles appear on the screen again.
Hannah
Do you work tomorrow?
Hmm. Do I flirt? Or do I be normal? Maybe a mix of both.
Me
Sure do. Why? You want to see me?
Hannah
Oh, um, I was curious if I’d see you out and about. I work days.
Me
Yep, I work days too. Not that I’d ever wish something bad to happen to someone, but maybe I’ll get to see you tomorrow. Cause I want to see you.
There isn’t an answer for a long few minutes, and I worry I’ve gone too far. I can’t seem to get a read on her, on what might be too far, or just enough. I’m a natural flirt, and I’m holding myself back a bit, not wanting to scare her away.
Hannah
I’d never wish bad on someone either, but I’d like to see you too.
I throw my fist in the air when her message comes through. Hell yes.