Ezra's Winner

Nine

Ezra's POV

I had been in the office for the past three hours. Working tirelessly to the point where I felt like I was going to drown in words. Both Tyler and Damon have come into my office at least four times. And it was getting dangerously close to lunchtime and I didn't have breakfast. The only thing I could think of was a BLT grilled cheese. I craved it badly. Maybe a smoke. 

And if I was brave enough to admit it to myself...the company that came with those things.

But I'm not. So I won't.

Just as I closed my laptop and stood, there was a knock on the door. It took everything in me not to groan out loud. I walked over and opened the door only to see Donnie. Immediate shame and guilt flooded me. I keep forgetting he's here. And that us being together was supposed to happen...and soon.

"Hey, are you leaving?" He asked with expectant blue eyes.

"Lunch time." 

"Oh, uh--" his eyes were downcast with disappointment and I immediately regretted being a dick. 

"Do you want to come?" I asked, which again instant regret. This meant I had to be my nicest, most put-together self. I am going to have to make conversation and be genuine. When all I wanted to do was be...me.

Donnie lit up and a smile so big stretched across his face. He was nearly bouncing as he said yes and followed me out to my car. 

Being the gentleman that I am, I opened the car door for him and he blushed and muttered a quick thank you. The usual part of me that relished control perked up, but only for a moment. It's not as long as it usually does. But I ignored it. I wasn't in the mindset of trying to figure it out. I got in the car and rather than turning on my music, I drove in silence and forced myself to make conversation.

If I am going to marry this guy then I am going to have to marry him. Even more so if he is expected to carry my pups...pups...no. No. 

"Umm, so, I'm sorry I haven't been the most hospitable since you've been here." I forced myself to say. Even though I really wanted to tell him to leave and not come back. 

"No, it's fine. You're busy with work and friends. I only just showed up, and I don't expect you to make space for me in your life immediately."

Fuck. Guilt racked me and almost made me shiver.

"I--" I clenched the steering wheel. "No, I should make space, if we're to--I'll be better."

I watched as a smile covered his face and the tension released from his shoulders. I sighed and we fell into silence. Comfortable? No. But I had nothing to say and neither did he. It wasn't uncomfortable either. It just was. I suppose I'd have to get used to this. This was a look into my very near future.

I hated it.

I couldn't get to the restaurant fast enough. I knew the moment I'd walk in I'd be greeted with friendly faces and a smoke. 

I parked and got out of the car. Before Donnie could open his door I opened it for him. He offered another smile and cheeks were a bright red. He walked behind me and I opened every door for him. When I walked in I was met with Emily and she smiled. I didn't stop but rather went right to my booth. I sat on the side I usually do. But it didn't click where Donnie would sit. He slid onto the opposite side of the booth which made sense. But...that was Kenai's seat.

Where would Kenai sit if Donnie was there? 

My usual waiter, Jill, was at my table in no time. With my already-made plate ready for me to eat. It was then her eyes went wide when she saw Donnie.