Invisible String

Part 4- Late Night Talk

Astoria felt a sense of contentment as they left the restaurant, the spicy meal still lingering on their taste buds. The night air was cool and crisp, a gentle breeze carrying the faint aroma of flowers from a nearby garden. She glanced at Brandon, feeling grateful for the evening they had spent together.

"Hey, would you like some company while you walk back to your apartment?" he asked politely, his voice warm and considerate. "I know it's getting late, and I wouldn't want you to have to walk alone in the dark. Just to clarify, I have no ill intentions or ulterior motives here, and I'm not a pervert or anything like that. I just want to make sure you get home safely, that's all," he added, his eyes earnest as he spoke, wanting to ensure she felt comfortable with his offer and understood his sincerity.

Astoria appreciated Brandon's genuine offer and the way he clarified his intentions. Having encountered men with ulterior motives before, she found Brandon's sincerity refreshing and reassuring. His concern for her safety was evident, and it warmed her heart.

"I understand. Thank you for being so considerate," she replied warmly, her smile softening the coolness of the night.

Relieved, Brandon said, "Let's get going then," and began walking toward the door, signaling for her to join him. She smiled as she followed, glad they were heading back toward her apartment.

As they stepped onto the street, a slight chill in the air greeted them, the night sky dotted with stars like a blanket of diamonds. The moon cast a silvery glow over the quiet streets, and the soft rustling of leaves added a peaceful ambiance to the scene. Brandon noticed Astoria shiver slightly,

"Are you cold?" concern evident in his voice.

Astoria shook her head. "Just a little. I didn't expect it to get this chilly."

Without hesitation, Brandon removed his jacket and draped it over her shoulders. "Here, take this. I don't want you catching a cold."

Touched by his gesture, Astoria thanked him, feeling warmth spread through her despite the cool night air. The weight of his jacket on her shoulders felt comforting and protective. They walked side by side, the street lamps casting a soft glow around them, creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

As they approached the crosswalk, Brandon remained cautious and protective, walking close by Astoria's side and staying vigilant for potential dangers. The streets were quiet, with only the occasional passing car breaking the silence. They waited for the traffic signal to change, and Brandon ensured they crossed safely, looking both ways before stepping onto the road.

Astoria couldn't help but tease Brandon as they crossed. "So, how many girls have you walked home like this already?" she joked, chuckling softly, her eyes sparkling with playful mischief.

Brandon laughed, finding her comment amusing and unexpected.

"Oh, only a few... nothing too serious," he replied, maintaining the playful tone, his grin widening.

"A few times, huh?" she said, playing up the teasing. "So, are you some kind of playboy?" she joked, nudging him lightly.

"Well, I wouldn't say that exactly," he replied vaguely, adding to the humor. "I guess you could say I'm a bit inexperienced when it comes to this sort of thing..." he added, blushing slightly, the rosy hue on his cheeks more visible under the streetlights.

Astoria teased him again, her curiosity piqued. "How inexperienced are we talking? You're quite handsome and polite, so I would've thought you'd have plenty of women falling for you," she said with a soft laugh, genuinely interested.

"Well..." he mumbled, looking up reluctantly, "It's not like I don't want to date or have a relationship... I just haven't met someone like that yet," he added hesitantly, his gaze shifting to the ground as if the cobblestones held the answers.