The living room was dim except for the soft glow of the television.An old movie played quietly, the dialogue blending into the background as evening settled around the apartment. Angela sat curled into the corner of the couch, a blanket draped over her legs.
Phylicia sat close beside her. Closer than either of them would have been two months ago. Angela's head rested lightly against Phylicia's shoulder, her fingers absentmindedly tracing slow patterns along the back of Phylicia's hand where their fingers were loosely intertwined. Neither of them had commented on how natural it felt. The movie shifted into a quieter scene.
Angela sighed softly.
"This is my favorite part."
Phylicia glanced down at her instead of the screen.
"I figured."
Angela tilted her head.
"You did?"
"You get still when you're paying attention to something you love."
Angela smiled faintly, a little shy at being studied that closely. They fell quiet again. Minutes passed and the movie continued. Angela shifted slightly, tucking herself more comfortably against Phylicia, her leg now resting across Phylicia's. Phylicia's arm instinctively moved around her shoulders. Angela didn't hesitate—she leaned into it. After a while, Phylicia spoke, her voice low so it didn't break the softness of the moment.
"Angela."
"Hmm?"
Phylicia hesitated.
Angela turned her head slightly to look up at her.
"What is it?"
Phylicia studied her for a moment really studied her. The relaxed expression, the trust in the way she was curled into her.
"I want to ask you something."
Angela smiled.
"Well ask woman"
"I am."
Angela shifted so she was facing her now, still tucked close, her hand resting against Phylicia's arm.
"Okay," she said gently.
Phylicia took a breath.
"We spend a lot of time together."
Angela's smile softened. "We do."
"And I enjoy it."
"I know you do," Angela teased lightly.
Phylicia's mouth twitched, but her expression stayed earnest.
"We haven't been on an actual date ."
Angela's teasing faded. She gave her full attention now.
"I don't want you wondering what this is or where you stand with me."
Angela searched her face.
"And where do I stand?"
Phylicia's voice dropped.
"I'd like to take you out officially"
A small pause.
"On a proper date. Not anything friendly."
Angela blinked once.
Then again.
"A real one?" she asked softly.
"Yes."
"No school talk?"
"No school."
"No grading papers?"
"Absolutely not."
