The Arrangement

8

A few days after their difficult conversation, Lucas reached out to Carina, asking to meet for lunch. He wanted to apologize again and make amends, hoping to maintain some level of friendship. Carina agreed, appreciating his willingness to respect her boundaries.

They met at a cozy bistro downtown, the atmosphere more relaxed than their last meeting. Lucas seemed more at ease, and after they ordered, he looked at Carina with a sincere expression.

Lucas: "Carina, I just wanted to apologize again for the other day. I know I didn't take it well, and I want you to know I respect your decision. I've been thinking a lot, and I just want to support you, whatever that means."

Carina smiled, touched by his words. "Thank you, Lucas. I appreciate that. It means a lot to me."

Lucas nodded, then hesitated before continuing. "I was thinking... there's a local art gallery opening tonight. I know you love art, and I thought maybe we could go together? It would just appear as two friends attending the opening to the public and any press that may be there."

Carina considered his offer for a moment, then nodded. "That sounds nice. That was on my list to check out that gallery. Let's do it."

After finishing lunch, the pair decided to keep spending quality time together. Carina had felt slightly guilty about not being available to Lucas but was grappling with these new feelings she got every time Maya was close. She had to resolved to put more effort into the relationship that she had chosen to continue. She did enjoy the carefree relationship that had been filled with good sex, well mediocre sex but Lucas was always up for an adventure and managed to find exciting new places for them to enjoy.

Carina had accompanied Lucas back to his house to change clothes before the gallery opening. Lucas emerged from the bedroom holding two colored button downs. "Red or Grey?" He asked Carina as he approached her in the living room.

"Grey" Carina replied as he leaned in for a kiss.

"Man, I have wanted to do that since I saw you at lunch earlier." Lucas smiled as he leaned back in for another kiss pushing his tongue slightly against Carina's lips asking for permission to enter. Carina opened her mouth as their tongues continued to fight for dominance.

Carina smiled when the kiss broke but couldn't help but think that kissing Lucas did not seem to compare to kissing Maya. The tingling sensation that used to spread through her lips just wasn't there compared to the lightning she felt when her lips touched Maya's. Carina stepped back. "We should head out soon, I am really looking forward to this opening"

"Yes, sure just a few more minutes. I missed having you here with me." Lucas said as he tried to use his puppy dog eyes on Carina. "Actually, I was thinking would you like to stay over tonight?"

"Oh" Carina's mind raced as she tried to find the right answer, "I can't tonight, I have a huge meeting very early tomorrow. Maybe we can work out another day."

"Sure," Lucas said sounding a bit dejected. "I did kind of just spring it on you."

Carina leaned in for a short kiss while he finished buttoning his shirt and grabbed her purse heading for the door.

When they arrived at the art gallery the space was filled with various pieces from local artists, creating a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere. As they walked through the exhibits, Carina found herself relaxing, enjoying the experience. Lucas seemed genuinely interested in the art, making thoughtful comments and sharing his opinions.

Carina's attention was caught by a striking painting by a local artist. It depicted an abstract landscape, filled with vivid colors and dynamic brushstrokes. She stood in front of it for a long moment, captivated by its energy.