Ungodly Addiction

Chapter Five - Decisions and Dilemmas

After three unsuccessful calls to dad, I was nudged to throw a sundress over my wet bathing suit and check who was outside. Sun peeped through the tall windows at the front of the living room as I cautiously shifted the curtains aside. A blue CRV was parked on the side of the road, its polished exterior glinting in the light, but no one was visible. 

I double-checked that dad's security camera was on; the tiny red beam reassured me that it was recording. If anything happened, at least he'd have a record. Taking a deep breath, I unlocked the door and stepped outside. Halfway to the gate, I noticed movements—a figure emerging from the CRV. 

I squinted against the bright sunlight, trying to discern their features which became clearer with each step, their casual stride nullified my anxiousness and boom the recognition attacked me like a whirlwind, I exhaled the breath I had unconsciously been holding.

"Sean?" I called out, my voice mixed with both surprise and relief. My steps quickened and the tension in my shoulders relaxes as I hurried toward him. 

I reached the gate, but it stood like a barrier between us. There was no way I was opening it. What if he was a serial—

"I'm just bringing your phone." His voice cut through my thoughts as he extended his hand, holding what looked like my iPhone 13 Pro Max. My mouth opened to question him, but he was quick to explain, "You left it on top of your car at the supermarket parking lot."

He added that he hadn't left immediately, so he saw when I drove off and the phone slid to the ground. "I was literally just searching for it when I heard you tapping on the gate. Thank you so much!" I extended my gratitude as I admired two minor scratches on the side. 

He smiled one of those smiles that tug at your soul. "You're welcome." I smiled back, awkwardly.

"Are you always this focused?" he asked, catching me off guard. "I've been trying to get your attention since I drove out behind you, but you didn't even budge."

"I just have a lot on my mind, that's all. Sorry you had to come all this way," I said, offering an apologetic smile.

He waved it off with an easy grin. "No big deal. Don't worry about it."

"How can I repay you?" I asked, genuinely curious.

"Mhmmm." He tilted his head thoughtfully, rubbing his chin with his thumb and index finger. His expression suggested he was about to say something interesting. "How about your number?"

"That's all?" I asked, astonishedly. 

"I was going to ask if I could join you for a swim, but that might be too forward. So, your number will do for now." My gaze dropped briefly, noticing the outline of my bathing suit through the dress. Slightly embarrassed, I managed to laugh it off.

We exchanged numbers, and I suggested he head home with Selena. "I dropped her off on my way here," he said, smiling. "We actually live six houses down the block, surprisingly."

My jaw dropped. "What?!"

I explained that it was my dad's house and that I was just spending some time with him. "So, I guess I'll see you around before you leave?" he asked with his fingers crossed. 

"Yeah, sure!" I replied with high hopes. 

He smiled for what felt like the hundredth time, and it was already starting to grow on me. I liked it because he had really white teeth, perfectly straight too. He then turned to leave, and I watched as he walked back to his car. He waved as he turned it around and drove off, leaving me with a flutter of anticipation as I stood by the gate.