The Fifth Date

Chapter 20

I was too stricken.

My lips parted to say something, but what exactly would I say?

I didn’t know.

It was all happening so fast. Sure, I’ve been asked out on a date but I’ve always turned them down. That may look like I’m so famous and pretty but believe me, I’m not. It’s all boiled down to my trust issues. And that was my current dilemma. I was always certain that I didn’t trust anyone. But when it came to you, a riot started inside of me. I was uncertain whether or not I didn’t trust you. And you were the only person who made me feel this way.

When I didn’t say anything, you took it as an opportunity for an explanation.

“I just—I just want to prove to you that not all people deserve to be untrusted.” You shifted in your seat and tugged the sleeves of your polo higher, forehead creasing as you licked your lips.

I was intrigued with that small gesture.

Why do you have to lick your lips in a critical situation like this?

I mean, why?

I slugged down my Americano until it was empty. The caffeine kicking every nerve in me. Oh, it was so wrong. I was palpitating. My heart was punching my ribcage. My knees were jerking inessentially. I stretched my legs to stop them from jerking but dear Lord, it was another wrong move. I accidentally brushed against your legs and mine had frozen at that moment. I couldn’t flex them back anymore. It stayed there beside your legs. You were talking but I couldn’t hear you clearly because I was nervous that you might have thought I purposely brushed my legs against yours. I felt like my heart was coming out already-- again.

“—and don’t worry after those four dates, I’ll let you decide.” You finished off. Your eyes on me expectantly.

I blinked my eyes.

Four dates?

What?

What did I miss?

I was about to ask you to repeat everything you said but your phone suddenly rang as if on cue. You fished out your phone from your pocket and stared at it for a while before excusing yourself. When you came back, you closed your notebook with the pencil inside and placed them back in your bag. I knew what was happening. You were leaving. You were leaving because you finally realized I was boring. You were leaving because—

“I’ll see you tomorrow, same time. Okay?” You wiggled your eyebrows at me and grinned, “And I don’t take no for an answer. I’ll go ahead. See you!” You waved at me before walking out of the coffee shop. I watched your retreating back in awe. My mouth hanging for a moment. What just happened?