The Thread Between Danny and Me

Chapter 37: I'm coming back

I stood silent as I watched Danny pack his things.

Inside, my heart ached.

Apparently, this was going to be harder than I thought.

I made sure to leave work exactly on time so I could see him for a bit before he left for Fenway.

"Are you okay, MJ?" Danny asked when he noticed my expression.

"Yeah. It's just harder than I thought it would be—watching you leave."

He nodded, dropped his bag, and came over to me. He covered my mouth with his own in an electrifying kiss.

"I'm coming back, MJ."

I nodded.

He gently put his finger under my chin and wrapped his other hand around my body. "I'm coming back, MJ."

"Yeah," I whispered.

Danny kissed me again. "There's no way I could ever think about separating myself from you now. I'm coming back, MJ."

I'm not sure who started undressing who first, but within thirty seconds, it seemed, we were entangled.

Our lovemaking was quick. But I felt reassured by his fullness, and his care in ensuring my needs were met amid our fervor.

"I love you," I said afterward. "I love you so much."

"Don't worry," he said gently. "I'll text you multiple times through the days we're apart. Keep me updated about how dinner goes with your dad tonight, too."

"Okay." I kissed his lips. "I'm going to miss you."

"I'm going to miss you, MJ. My life is so much better when you're in it."

"Me too."

He smiled tenderly. "Alright. I'm going to head out, Mi Vida."

"Okay. Have fun tonight. Say hi to Ev for me."

Danny kissed me again, then pet Rojo. "Bye, buddy. I'll see you soon."

"Love you," I called.

"I love you," Danny said.

He left.

I sunk into the couch and sighed. Rojo put his head on my lap so I could pet him.

"What a crazy week," I said to Rojo.

His tail thumped.

"I wish you could come with me to dinner. I could use some emotional support when I see Dad. And it's not like I can call Hector. Oh well."

I pet Rojo absently.

"I guess I should get ready."

Broad Street Pasta Bar was a fancier restaurant, so I opted for a dress, tall boots, and a cardigan. I checked my watch. The game had just started, so it was a good time to leave. I pet Rojo again, then headed out the door.

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"Hi. I'm here to meet someone," I said to the host at the restaurant's entrance. "Phil Johnson?"

"Yes. He's here. Right this way."

The host lead me through the white linin-covered tables toward the back, where I found my father dressed in a blue button-up and slacks. His hair had thinned considerably since the last time I saw him.

"Hi, Dad."

"Maria." We exchanged a light hug. "You look beautiful."

"Thanks."