Page 75 of Until You Came Along

“I was just going to clearly state what we both feel. Why don’t you like that word?”

“Because I was being romantic and…”

“I already told you I’m not romantic.”

“I have my doubts about that, but let’s not start arguing over it. I have to go because I need to change to go out.”

“Don’t wear anything too sensual because they’ll devour you with their eyes. They’ll look at what belongs to me, and I don’t like that.”

And there he was again, the bossy and domineering Hermes. I decided to take it with humor and play along.

“I’m sensual even in an oversized t-shirt,” I joked, remembering what he had said when he saw me wearing one of his.

“On that we agree, which means I’m in big trouble. Don’t finish too late and let me know so I can pick you up.”

“I’ll call you.”

“Behave yourself and think of me.”

As if I could not do that, I’m always thinking about you!I thought.

“I will,” I affirmed, and we ended the call.

???

Serafina arrived after nine in the evening. She was so dressed up that I assumed I wouldn’t be able to convince her to stay home. She was wearing a form-fitting black dress that looked gorgeous on her. I had opted for a sleeveless pink silk blouse, a red satin pencil skirt with delicate oriental-inspired floral paillette embroidery, and gold leather heels. I had styled my hair in a high ponytail with a tousled effect.

“You look beautiful, Seri!” I exclaimed when I saw her.

“And you look like an oriental goddess. That outfit is super sexy on you.”

“What are we going to do?” I asked, because even though I had dressed up, if she suggested staying home, I wouldn’t hesitate for a second.

“Looking as divine as we do, we have to go out and show ourselves off. Let’s go somewhere where we can eat and there’s live music. I know a really good place where you can even dance. You might have heard of it, it’s the pub ‘The Desire.’”

“I think you’ve mentioned it before, but I’ve never been. What’s certain is that I can’t stay out too late because Hermes is going to pick me up,” I clarified as I went to get the clutch where I planned to keep my things.

“That’s right, now you’re a girl with a controlling boyfriend,” she said, twisting her mouth in disgust.

“You’re jealous,” I stated.

“Maybe a little. I’m afraid Hermes Darwich will monopolize you and you’ll forget about me.”

“That will never happen. You’re like my sister and you know it.”

“Do you promise?”

“Word of honor.”

We arrived at the place Seri had suggested. It was a pub with live music where you could also have a good dinner. We chose a table with sofas near the stage and ordered food. As soon as we sat down, I began telling her about my experiences with Hermes. My friend listened very attentively without interrupting, which was unusual for her since she was always quick to offer her opinion.

“And that’s where we are, trying to understand each other and seeing what happens,” I concluded.

Serafina kept looking at me without saying anything, and her silence was starting to worry me.

“Are you going to tell me what you think?”

“If I tell you, you’ll probably say I’m wrong. But I’m going to tell you anyway,” she affirmed.