Fallen

Chapter 9: Chance Meeting

The next day was spent grocery shopping and being lazy. I drove down to Venice Beach, where we walked around, checked out all the little shops and ate at a small seafood place. Shannon held my hand across the table as we finished our coffee.
"This has been a great week. Being with you has been the best." He moved his thumb across my fingers.
"I feel the same. I really thought that closing myself off was helping my recovery, now I realize it's been so wrong." I stared at his hazel eyes.
"I'm so glad I came here."
"Me too."
"What are we going to tell Jared? He might be upset."
"Why?"
"He talked about you. That day in the rain.,he said that you were going to be part of his life."
"I hope so. He's the closest thing I've had to a real friend in a long time. I don't want to imagine him not being part of my life now."
"I don't think he feels that it's just friends."
"He's never said anything, not even shown interest in that."
"Just don't be surprised if he does get upset."
"I'll talk to him about it if it comes up. Right now my feelings are all focused on you. You've opened my eyes to all I've missed."
He smiled. "Happy to do it."
Leaning across the table, I was ready to meet his lips.
"Lisa?" An authoritative voice interrupted.
I looked over quickly. A tall man, broad shouldered, thin with dark hair and eyes, dressed in tan pants and a white buttoned shirt, stood next to to table. On instinct, I stood up quickly, straight stance and away from his eyes.
"Good day." I greeted sternly.
"I thought that was you, I haven't seen you lately." His voice was calm.
"I've been busy. My apologies."
"I can see why. Might I see you tomorrow? Regular time?" He suggested.
"Yes sir. I'll be there." I agreed.
"Good. Have a pleasant day." He walked away.
I took a deep breath and sat back down.
"Who was that?" Shannon asked, a little confused.
Looking quickly, I watched him walk down the boardwalk. He was like a serpent, calm and collected. I was very familiar with him.
"My...Uhm. My therapist." I answered trying to get composed.
"Really? He doesn't look like a shrink."
"A physical psychologist. I haven't been to an appointment all week."
"Oh shit. I'm sorry. Guess I've kept you busy." He was apologetic.
"Not your fault. My choice. I'll go tomorrow."
"I have work anyway. Feel like walking?"
"Yeah. So you mind if we don't sleep together tonight? I need to be clear headed tomorrow."
"That's fine. I can occupy myself with something."
"Thanks. You're a great guy Shannon."
"Aw. You'll make me blush." He leaned over and finished the kiss from earlier.
*********
Just a short chapter to get to the next one.
Interesting things to come.