David, clearly worried, asks, "Please tell me you were joking about what you said a minute ago."
"What did I say?"
"Don't play with me, young woman. You said, and I quote, 'One of these days, you are going to walk into something you are not supposed to see.' I hope it is not what I think you meant."
"Which is?"
"Are you and Ben having sex, and if you are, I hope you are using protection?"
"Who needs protection when you want the whole experience?" she says. I typically take an after-pill, after... you know...it.
David stops in his tracks, looking shocked. "Tell me you are joking." Shelley looks at him with an unreadable expression. Just then she burst into laughter. "Oh, my God. Take a look at your face. You look like you might drop dead any moment."
"Relax; we are not having sex, at least not yet. But honestly, have you seen the guy? He's not just good-looking; he's also unbelievably caring and loving. There are moments when I can't help but imagine what it would be like to cross that line with him, just to know how..."
"Wow, slow down, woman. I don't need to hear about your wet dreams involving Adam. Alright!"
"Listen, I understand that you're a strong, independent woman with your own desires, but I just want to gently remind you of your intention to wait until your wedding day to have intimacy for the first time. Have your thoughts on that changed at all?"
"No," she whispers, standing in the centre of the room. David made his way to her, placing both hands on her shoulders. "Good. I know Ben is irresistible, but you still have to be steadfast in your waiting." He smiles at her. However, if your opinions have changed, please remember to use a condom.
Shelley lets out a long sigh and says, "Enough of this conversation. This is typically a discussion between parents and their children, not among cousins."
"I know," he said. But knowing the relationship you have with your dad, I know there is no way you two will have this kind of conversation, and with your mom, well, she trusts you in that department. Therefore, it is incumbent upon me to take the lead and discuss these matters with you.
"I guess you are right. So, since we're having this conversation, which sex position do you think is best to have with Ben?"
"Are you serious right now?" David asked, clearly unamused. Shelley burst out laughing. "Don't mind me; I was just messing with you. But thanks anyway for the advice."
"You're always welcome," he murmured, gently ruffling her hair with a warm, affectionate touch.
Shelley sighed as she moved to the drawer by the TV. "Before I forget, Mabel stopped by the other day to return your money. She wanted me to let you know how grateful she is for your help. Although she wishes she could have thanked you in person, she doesn't have your phone number."
"She didn't need to return the money. It wasn't that much," he said.
"Yes, I understand," she replied, "but knowing Mabel, she definitely would."
"How is her son doing?" David enquired.
"He is fine. Thanks to you. If you hadn't stepped in when you did, things would have been bad for him. I can only imagine how devastated Mabel would be if she lost him. That boy is everything to her."
"I'm relieved it didn't have to come to that," he said. "And please, no more praises. I just happened to be in the right place at the right time, and I'm more than willing to help anyone you know."
YOU ARE READING
THE LONG WAIT
RomanceA whole year has slipped by since Ben went back to his hometown, and in that time, not a single word has reached Shelley from him-not a phone call, not even a quick text. Now she stands at a crossroads: should she keep the door open for him, or is i...
