"Thanks, it really gives me an irresistible charm, doesn't it?" I joked but Roselle agreed anyway. "Roselle, can I call you Rose?" I quickly ask.
"Only if I can call you Niki," she answered.
"Okay, deal! So Rose, tell me about yourself. Have you always lived In Boston? Family, friends, pets? Any restraining orders on exes who stalk you?" I tried to keep a straight face, but a smile wiggled out. Rose threw her head back laughing.
"Woah there sailor! Getting personal, I see! I wouldn't be surprised if you were part of a reality show," she chuckled.
"Oh yes, of course! Up close and personal is how I work," I smirked, adding a wink. Time flew and the more I knew about her, the more refills of coffee I had, the more I liked her. When I realized it hadn't been an hour but instead three, I knew I was in trouble. It seemed like a dream, reaching the impossible, breaking the friendship rope and crossing boundaries. It was a risky leap and I wasn't sure if I should've jumped.
"You know, talking to you has been the most fun I've had since I moved here," Roselle admitted shyly. I lit up interested.
"I feel the same way, and I'm glad I was of some use. I didn't notice the time, I hope I didn't stop you from going places," I apologized from behind my cup. Roselle stood up to stretch.
"Oh no, it's no biggie. I haven't been busy, well, I haven't had plans at all since I settled in," she confessed, looking away. I rose to her height and slowly walked towards the door.
As I held the door open I asked, "How come? Just haven't met anyone?"
Rose is quiet for a few seconds.
"I had a really great thing going on with my ex in Texas," she paused but continued, "it wasn't until she wanted something more," she looked up at my bewildered eyes. "That's when I realized I was stuck and I wasn't ready for anything else. We had a huge fight and a nasty break up so I moved out here to a fresh, new start," she concluded, obviously nervous about my reply.
"So you're..." I wondered outloud.
"Gay? Yes. Well, bisexual.." she faltered.
"Oh no! I meant, single, but you know, that works too," I nervously responded. She gleamed back at me.
"Well, yes, that too," she said, staring into my eyes. Gulping, I cleared my throat, causing her to look away. I touched her arm gently.
"I'm really sorry about how it ended but I'm happy we met and that it's good so far, I hope.." I told her wistfully.
"Meeting you has been the best thing that's happened since my break-up," Rose smiled at me.
I blushed and gave her a hug goodbye.
"I'll call you, and invite you over. I'm a great cook," I boasted, hoping she wouldn't think of it as 'cocky', but instead she giggled.
"I'll be waiting."
