With Every Breath I Take

Chapter Fifteen: (Theo) Not One of My Kinks

I took a deep breath and finally mustered up the courage to ring the doorbell.

When I asked Thalia if she would give me another chance, I was surprised she didn't immediately reject me. After opening up to her following my karaoke performance, she agreed to put my mistakes aside and start anew. And, unlike the last time, I made the first move and asked her out on a date.

I waited nervously for Thalia to answer the door. Once the door flew open, I stood speechless. Thalia looked stunning in a wrap silk dress, and she had on more makeup than usual. I opened my mouth to compliment her, but I froze when I noticed a fly swatter in her hand. "Umm, sweetheart, what's that for?" I asked, hoping she wasn't planning to use it on me. Did she regret accepting our date? Was this her way of kicking me out?

"Huh," she said, as her brows furrowed.

"Baby, why do you have a fly swatter?"

She jolted with understanding. "Oh, I was trying to get rid of an annoying little pesky fly."

"Here...let me help," I offered, walking into her apartment. As I looked around the living room, I spotted an unusually large fly near the kitchen bar. I hurried after it and started to look for something I could use to catch it.

I was grabbing a kitchen towel when Thalia slowly approached from behind me. "Don't move," she whispered. Then, she smacked me behind my neck with the swatter.

"Ouch," I grunted. "What the hell, Thalia? Spanking is not one of my kinks."

"I'm so sorry, Theo," she snorted, laughing at me. "But, the fly was right there. I almost got it."

Shaking my head, I reached my hand out and beckoned to her. "Hand over the weapon, Thalia."

"Oh, Theo. You're overreacting," she managed to say as she continued to laugh. "I can catch a fly."

I grabbed the swatter from her and started to wave it around toward the fly. Finally, I managed to direct the fly out the door. Then, I faced Thalia as her laughter died down into chuckles. "Sweetheart," I huffed. "If you're finished laughing, we can head out."

She nodded and walked toward her purse on the couch. Once she grabbed it, I escorted her out the door and to my car. Then, I drove us to the Ford amphitheater.

"Theo, what are we doing here?" Thalia asked as I pulled into a parking spot.

I cleared my throat and faced her. "Well, one of my co-workers has a daughter that dances at a local studio. Tonight, they're rehearsing for a show and I'd thought you'd like to watch. The theater is mostly empty. There will only be a few parents in the audience."

I studied her as she stared at me but didn't respond. I started to get nervous and was about to offer something else to do when she gave me a small smile and nodded. Blowing out a breath of relief, I reached into the backseat and grabbed the plastic bag full of snacks I brought for us.

We exited the car and checked in with a security guard, who led us to some available seats. The rehearsal had already started so we quietly took our seats. And I spent the next two hours watching Thalia, as she admired the dancers.

After the rehearsal, Thalia and I grabbed a quick bite to eat at a diner and I drove her back to her apartment. As we walked to her door, I shuffled my feet nervously. Did I ask to go inside? Did I give her a good night kiss? Did I ask for another date? I felt like a shy pre-teen boy with his first crush.

Once we reached her apartment, she turned to face me. "Thank you, Theo. I had a great time. This was a very thoughtful date."

"I was hoping you'd like it, but I confess I was nervous," I admitted as I lifted my hand and caressed her cheek.

"Why?"

"Well, I didn't know if I was overstepping. I didn't know if you'd like to watch the ballet."

"I loved it," she quickly reassured. "I haven't been to one since my accident. And honestly...it was time."

"I'm glad I could be there with you."

"Me too."

I bit my lip and stared into her eyes. "I guess I should say good night."

She blushed and nodded.

"Am I allowed to kiss you good night?" I asked, cautiously.

I stood frozen as she watched me for a beat. Then, she slowly leaned in and gave me a peck on the corner of my lips.

"I'll take it, gorgeous. I missed your kisses," I whispered, smiling at her. I watched as she opened her door and walked into her apartment, shutting the door behind her.

Then, I turned and walked back to my car as I pulled out my phone and texted Thalia.

Thank you for a beautiful night. When can I see you again?