Invisible string (lestappen)

Chapter 25 : Charles

'When are you planning on leaving for Brazil ?'

I smile at my phone while reading the text Max just sent me. I'm glad he reached out. I was planning on doing it too since it happened yesterday but my overthinking self stopped me.

I couldn't help wondering if maybe it'd be too soon, or if he might regret what we did after all. I wouldn't blame him if he did. I'm surprised I'm not freaking out about it. I mean I am freaking out but more in an I can't stop thinking about kissing him and I might be getting addicted to the feeling type of way.

'I take the plane wednesday morning, you ?'

'Tomorrow night'

I stare at the three little dots appearing on the screen telling me he still has something to say. My hands start sweating while my brain tries to guess what he could say.

'Do you want to hang out before I take it ? I can't today, busy schedule'

My heart skips a beat. Max wants to hang out with me. He's not freaking out. Or he's hiding it pretty damn well. Either way, I'll take what I can get. I'm pretty busy tomorrow too but I'm supposed to be free for the evening.

'Yes, take out diner ? I'll send you my hotel address'

I wish so desperately at this moment that our lives were different so I could invite him out properly. Have dinner with him outside and make him taste all my favorite foods while telling him about my day.

But the sad reality is, we can't offer to do that. The minute we'd be seen together people would start speculating. Making rumors, and spreading misinformation. And overall ruin everything.

'Good idea :)'

I smile. He probably thinks exactly like me. That this is for the best. It doesn't change how excited I feel about seeing him again though.

•••

The next day, he taps on my hotel door around 6 pm. I let him in, feeling weirdly stressed and awkward about the whole situation. It's just Max, I tell myself. Nothing to be stressed about.

'I bought Chinese and Indian food'

I point at the two white boxes on my dining table.

'I don't really know what kind of food you like so'

I mentally want to punch myself. Why did I say that ? So so uncool. I turn to look at him in time to see him shrug.

'I'm not picky, I like both'

I roll my eyes.

'Of course, you're not. But liking everything is boring Max'

He grins while taking a step closer.

'Well, guess I'm boring'

I allow my eyes to drop down for a second to look at his whole stature. Even though we're pretty much the same height, it still manages to make me feel small.

I swallow with difficulty as he slowly but noticeably closes the gap between us.

'I guess you are'

The words sound shakier than I'd like.

He brings his lips near my ear and whispers.