Page 37 of The Off-limits Grump Next Door

Antonio’s expression remained calm, but a hint of disappointment flickered in his eyes.

“Can I ask why?” he inquired gently.

I took a deep breath, grasping for an excuse.

“It’s just… I… I don’t think I’m ready to let go of the past,” I said, avoiding eye contact. “My late husband… it’s still hard for me.”

Antonio’s face softened.

“I understand,” he said. “I’m not asking you to forget him. I just want a chance to show you I care.”

My heart was wrenched. I didn’t want his empathy. It only made me feel all the more terrible.

“I’ll think about it,” I said finally.

Antonio nodded, a gentle smile forming.

“That’s good enough for me.”

As we finished dinner and Antonio drove us home, my mind whirled with conflicting emotions. His understanding and kindness touched a chord within me.

As we stood outside my door, Antonio’s eyes searched mine.

“Thank you for tonight,” he said softly. “I’ll give you space to think.”

I nodded, feeling guilty for leading him on.

“Antonio,” I began, unsure how to continue.

“Yes?” he prompted.

“What if you found out that… I’ve been keeping something from you?” I asked vaguely.

Antonio’s expression turned quizzical. “Something like what?”

“Uh… anything… like something about my personal life, maybe.”

“Hmm… and, why do you ask?”

“Nothing. Just asking.”

There was skepticism in his eyes, but he answered anyway. “If you kept something from me, then I believe it would be because you couldn’t share it just yet. So, I’ll wait until you feel safe enough to share.”

My heart skipped a beat. His words sent a flutter through my chest.

As he leaned in to kiss me goodnight, I felt my resolve weakening.

“Goodnight,” he whispered, his lips brushing against mine.

I unlocked my door and entered my apartment, my thoughts in disarray.

Why was I hesitating? Was it fear of getting hurt or fear of losing my job?

Or was it something deeper?

***

Days passed, and Antonio respected my need for space. We exchanged occasional texts, but I could sense his restraint.