Soak Up The Sun

Real Love

June 2023

"How come you never talk about him?" Asked Noel as he looked over his tour itinerary that Sophie had just handed him.

Sophie frowned.

"Who?"

"The phone guy. You said the first few dates went well so what's happening?"

Sophie flushed. The dates she'd had with Liam had all gone fantastically well. The magnetic pull to him she felt in his presence was irresistible. They'd both been taking things slow afraid of the enormity of it all and the intensity of feelings they were experiencing. Living in 2 different places. Keeping what they had secret for the sake of her job also added another layer of complication.

"Well he lives out of the city."

Noel shrugged.

"I'd be flying across the country if the girl was special. Like you."

Sophie smiled from his genuinely kind compliment.

"He's busy. And so am. I we're just keeping it casual."

Noel nodded.

"And you're sure he's not a psycho or got a secret family?"

Sophie chuckled and nodded.

"Normal enough. He's got a family...he's divorced. And I know all that. He's very honest which I like."

Noel grimaced.

"You sure you're up for taking on that baggage?"

Sophie pointed to him.

"Pot. Kettle. Youre not exactly baggage free."

Noel rolled his eyes.

"Yeah but I'm not getting myself involved with a 30 year old woman. Is he older yeah?"

Sophie nodded.

"Yeah...he's nearer your age than mine. We know what we're doing...I think. I don't know it's the weirdest thing but it feels like we've met before. I've never felt anything like the way I feel when I'm with him. Just taking his hand or looking in his eyes...he's got really beautiful eyes you know."

Noel retched.

"Ugh wish I'd never asked now. You've got to be careful with guys like that."

Sophie raised her brow.

"Guys like you you mean?"

Noel nodded eagerly.

"My point exactly."

"I'm cooking him dinner tonight." She admitted as she bit her lip.

Noel's eyes widened.

"Right well, let's pick a code text word to use if you want me to come rescue you."

Sophie rolled her eyes and laughed.

"I'm serious. Youre inviting this old, sleazy creep into your home now. Dates in public are different." Said Noel matter of factly.

Sophie continued to chuckle at the way Noel was being.

"I appreciate the protectiveness. But I'm a big girl. I'll be alright."

Noel shrugged.

"If I had a sister. I'd warn her. My daughter isn't that much younger than you. I know you like him and that but just be careful yeah?"

Sophie nodded. It was odd. She'd somehow always felt Noel was family. Like a brother. And now, considering who she was seeing, it all made sense. Sort of. If any of this made sense.