Page 76 of Foul Territory

“At least we can agree on something,” he says, standing. I liked him better on his knees.

“He isn’t who I’m talking about.”

“You’re dating someone else?” The muscles in his jaw flutter and his eyes narrow on me.

“I was never dating Joe. We were getting to know each other. I didn’t even kiss the guy.”

Koa rubs his hands aggressively through his short hair and over his face. “Who is he?”

“I’m not telling you. It doesn’t matter who I’m seeing. Just know it isn’t you.” I lift my chin. I can only imagine what he would say if I told him I was falling for someone I’ve met online. I can hear the lecture now.

“You’re right. It doesn’t matter who this other guy is,” he says, taking a step in my direction. “There have always been other guys. I’ve watched them all come and go over the years and never once did I worry because I know, Sydney.” He cups the side of my face.

I do my best to avoid eye contact but he keeps up with me easily so I give up and glare at him. “I know you’re mine. It has always been you for me. I’m done sitting on the sidelines, baby. You’re more than a memory to me. I'm not going to stop until we get it right.”

“How are we going to do that when I haven’t agreed to any of this?”

“Day by day.”

“You plan on wearing me down to get your way?”

He shakes his head. “No. You’re right when you said we didn’t even get started. This is where we begin. Right here. Please, will you go out on a date with me?”

“You can’t erase the past. I can’t forget…”

“I don’t want you to. I want the opportunity to make new memories. Let me show you what I already know. And if you like this other guy more, I’ll do what you want and let you go.”

A wave of panic rushes through my blood lighting it on fire. I should question why my body has a visceralreaction to the idea of Koa letting me go for good. It feels so final. I’m not prepared for that.

“Fine. One date,” I say, knowing that despite my hesitancy, this is what my heart craves.

Yet, there is part of me that doesn’t want to give up on my mystery man online and the connection we made. He may not be able to give me what I want physically, but emotionally he’s everything I’ve been needing.

How do I walk away from that?

FICTION FORUM

FaeAtHeart

What are the chances we'll meet one day?

NotYourAverageJoe19

I’d say there’s a good chance.

FaeAtHeart

When?

NotYourAverageJoe19

I need more time.

FaeAtHeart

I understand.

Can I ask another question?