Trigger Warnings:
Mention of toxic family/alcoholism
Part One
Chapter 1
Sophia
“Soph, do we have food for lunch today?” I glanced around my kitchen nervously and didn’t see anything I could send with my brother Shane to school. He just looked at me like I was supposed to have the answers. I suppose I should, but he didn’t feel like my brother sometimes, we were more like friends. Except for right now when I was in the position of being a provider and not a friend. “Earth to Sophia…” He waved his hand in front of my face.
“Sorry bud, I need to go shopping. Here…” I pulled a twenty out of my wallet and handed it to him. “Why don’t you get a hot lunch at school?”
“Sweet.” He did a fist pump then headed for the bus stop. We didn’t have much but we didn’t need much either. It had been Shane and I since I was twenty five and he was eight. We had different dads and he was an oops. Then when mom got sick, I was the next logical person to take him.
He didn’t know that ‘sick’ just meant that mom was too drunk to notice anything going on. She was a problem, but I didn’t deal with her unless I had to. Adelaide found me through a temp job. I took it when her previous assistant retired. And we just meshed so well together that they hired me full time. She knows about Shane, and babysits sometimes, but he’s thirteen now and is safe at home. I have cameras up by each entrance and the main living spaces.
It’s weird being thirty years old with basically a thirteen year old kid at home that I was fully responsible for. My phone buzzed in my pocket reminding me that I was late. Again. Addy would understand. She always did. I never heard a thing about it.
As I pulled into my spot at the office, I spotted Lena. She was walking up too. Her husband Bennett in tow. He was in charge of security and for our floor specifically. “Hey!” I waved to her enthusiastically, shaking off the dread that I had been drowning in all morning after not having food for Shane.
“Hey girl!” Lena shouted back, Bennett nodded as I walked up and Lena put her elbow out for me. It was awkward, I was taller than her but she was a sweetheart and didn’t seem to notice or care. “How’s it going?”
“Great! I sent uh…” I stopped myself. The girls didn’t know about Shane, well other than Addy, and I didn’t really want to mention it now. “I sent off an email from home and decided I should actually come in. My computer was acting up.”
“The usual.” She rolled her eyes with me. Whew…Good save on my part.
Chapter 2
Sophia
I hit enter again for the twentieth time and nothing happened. I was one malfunction away from throwing this laptop across the office and asking for a new one. The only bright side was that I now got to talk to Mate through the IT chat. He always made me laugh, and it was kinda hot watching him remote into my computer and show it who’s the boss.
Addy peeked her head into my office, “All good in here? I heard you clicking furiously.”
“This laptop…” I grumbled, pointing to the computer in question. “I’m going to break it in half and then request a new one. I’m warning you now.”
She started laughing. “The drama. If you’d just let it catch up with your speedy self, I’m sure you’d be just fine.”
“If you tell me to slow down one more time…” I said with warning and she grinned. She knew that patience was not a strong suit of mine.
“I didn’t say slow down. I said, let the computer catch up.” I loved Addy, she was my best friend and I’d always be grateful for her finding this job for me at City Women. But I didn’t have the patience to work with computers all day and being her assistant required that of me. I didn’t love the job, I loved who I worked with.
“You know what, same difference.” I crossed my arms. “Let me guess you're going to tell me to message IT…” I acted annoyed, but I was really giddy with the thought that I’d get to message back and forth with Mate again. Even if it was IT related, I still enjoyed talking to him…well, chatting with him. I didn’t know what he sounded like, although I’d love to know.
“Message IT.” Addy shrugged. “Maybe I need to speak to Marigold and have them come to the office and upgrade everyone's devices and our internet. We haven’t done that in a couple years.” I barely noticed her walking out because the thought of seeing Mate in person was a dreamy one. To finally put a face and voice to the name…sweet baby Jesus that would be amazing.
I glanced back at my computer and the screen I was trying to access had loaded in the minute that I was talking to Addy and that annoyed me even more. I was still messaging Mate. That would fulfill my fantasy for a minute, even if it was him remoting in and telling me to restart my computer.
Me: Are you available to look at my computer? The dots danced across the screen for a few minutes, then he responded.
Mate: For you, I’m available anytime.
Chapter 3
Maitland
I had a moment of annoyance when I heard my chat ping, then I realized it was Sophia and the annoyance was gone. I was obsessed with her. I loved how funny she was and her impatience was part of her charm. Sometimes I waited a few minutes to respond and I could only imagine her sitting at her perfectly fine computer and tapping her fingers.
Waiting for me.
“You getting that?” My friend and coworker, Brandon, rolled out from behind his desk to look at me.
“Yeah. I got it.” He knew I liked dealing with the City Women chat. None of the other guys dealt with it, they didn’t like the women complaining about slow computers. They didn’t know I just liked dealing with Sophia. She was everything I wasn’t.
She was outgoing, loud, quick witted and her profile picture was gorgeous. She had on a black sweater dress that was fitted, a gold belt and long gold necklace. They must let the staff pick their pictures because it was obviously a selfie, which made it more adorable.
Sophia: Are you available to look at my computer?
I decided to let her simmer today. I didn’t want to seem too eager.
Me: For you, I’m available anytime.
Smooth but still professional. Good job me. I heard Brandon snickering behind his computer. “Shut the fuck up.”
“Sorry, you are trying to be cool, but you're not. So give it up Mate.” He kept up his laughter but I tuned him out when I saw Sophia typing again.
Sophia: Remote in again?
Me: Yes. We’ll offline the chat.
I decided I didn’t want to have Brandon mocking me for the entire chat, and then everyone wouldn’t get a notification because she did message. A lot.
Sophia: Excellent. I’m logging into remote now.
I swear my heart skipped a beat when the notification came through. I rolled my neck, then logged in too.
Chapter 4
Sophia
He was going through my computer like a pro, but he was also a part of the massive IT team that Marigold hired so they were the pros.
He cleared my history and cookies, then emptied the recycle bin that had probably thousands of documents that I’d deleted. I could have done this, but just the small interaction was enough to fuel me for the week.
Mate: Try what you were doing before when it froze.
I clicked on the link and the video opened immediately. The power of a cute IT guy, I tell yah.
Me: Thank you 🙂
Mate: Anytime. Have a good day Sophia 🙂
Oh no, how can I get him back. Normally my issues were bigger and we’d have more time.
Me: Are you free this weekend?
My fingers froze on the keyboard. Did I really just do that? Fuck me. I was now panicking. Maybe he can’t go on a date with me, maybe it would be a breach of contract or something. Shit.
Mate: We don’t work on the weekends.
Oh. My. God. I’m a fucking idiot. Of course this was a work chat, so of course he’d think that I was asking about something work related. How did I explain this now without royally embarrassing myself.
Mate: Unless you are asking me out, then I’ll defer to my first answer.
I sighed. He responded first. I didn’t have to make a fool of myself.
Mate: As a reminder, I’m available for you anytime.
Swoon. Okay, I needed to rally. I didn’t think he’d accept my offer.
Me: Theos on Saturday night?
He responded with his cell number and I was on cloud nine. I had a date with the cute IT guy. Shit. And I had to find a sitter for Shane…just in case I didn’t come home.
Chapter 5
Maitland
Brilliant deduction Sherlock. Of course she was asking you out. I rolled my eyes and then stared back at my computer screen tapping my chin. How was I going to save this?
Me: Unless you are asking me out, then I’ll defer to my first answer.
Okay, that was smooth.
Me: As a reminder, I’m available for you anytime.
I was doing okay. No typos and I didn’t wait too long between messages. My computer dinged again and I flinched. She didn’t wait either.
Sophia: Theos on Saturday night?
Before I chickened out I sent back my phone number and she liked the message.
Fuck yeah. I was actually going to see Sophia in person and I was over the moon about it. Then the dread slowly set in.
I was going to see Sophia in person. As in I didn’t have the protection of a chat to think about witty, smooth responses. In real life I was awkward as fuck. She didn’t know that though.
“Dude, why do you look like you’ve seen a ghost?” Brandon rolled around the desk and had a shit eating grin on his face. “Wait.” He rolled to my screen and saw the messages from Sophia. “She asked you out and you responded that we don’t work on the weekends?” He rolled backwards he was laughing so hard. “But hold on, what did you say after that to save face?”
“I said, ‘as a reminder, I'm available for you anytime’.”
“That’s pretty fucking smooth for you. Nerd.” Brandon attempted to ruffle my hair but I ducked before he made contact.
“Knock it off. Go and answer the message that came through on your computer.” I got up and refilled my water. I had a week to stew over the date with Sophia and it would kill me.
When I sat back down at my computer I had a text from Sophia. It was simple, just a waving hand emoji and her name. Alright, so dinner this weekend.
Nothing to worry about. I’m chill. Right? Yes. Ugh. I needed to work on my self-talk before Saturday.
Chapter 6
Sophia
I had a date with Mate.
This could not really be happening. I’d been dreaming about him for months and now I was going to see him in person. I had to tell someone, so I hustled to Addy’s office, well and I had a huge favor to ask too.
When I turned the corner everyone was piled into her office, including the two cuties who she was dating right now. “Good morning Mr. Pierced Cock and Mr. Cocky.” I waved sweetly. Forgetting for a moment that I had news, but maybe not for this audience. What the hell, I was not easily embarrassed. “I have a date.” I announced and Addy’s face broke into a bright smile.
“Yeah!” She clapped. “You deserve it.”
Marigold jumped in. “Who might it be with?”
Shit. Now I was thinking that maybe there was some kind of contract that I couldn’t date someone from the IT company. “Well…” Norah chimed in now.
“It’s with Mate.” I hid my face for a minute. Not wanting to see everyone’s reaction.
“From Capitol IT?” Addy inquired.
“Yes.” I slowly uncovered my face.
“Oh, that’s amazing. He always seems so nice when I chat with him.” Mari stood in front of me, pulling my hands down. “I’m really happy for you.”
I loved Mari. She was like the mom I never had, even if we were the same age. She was so sincere and supportive and always pushed us to do things outside our comfort zone. “Thank you.” I found my confidence again.
“What are you wearing?” Lena asked quietly. She kept to herself mostly, but she was sweet as pie.
“Alright then.” Mr. Pierced Cock stood up and Mr. Cocky followed. I shook my head at my own inside joke. That’s what I called Tyson and Vance when Addy first started seeing them. “It’s time for us to go. Important gym business.”
“We can be helpful.” Vance argued.
“Um no.” Addy pushed them out, then closed the door. She whipped around, “Sophia darling, what are we wearing to this date?”
“We aren’t wearing anything.” I huffed.
“That’s scandalous.” Lena said quietly and I was reminded just how funny she was.
“NO!” I corrected myself quickly. “I’m wearing something…I haven’t really thought about it.”
“Well, get to thinking. You can raid my closet if you want.” Mari offered and I was reminded she’d do anything for any of us, to a fault.
I raised my hands. “No. No. I can find something. Besides, your chic business style doesn’t really suit me.”
“You don’t know what I do outside of work.” She winked and it dawned on me that I didn’t know much about her at all. She didn’t give me time to ask though, because as soon as she implied that she was basically a stranger, she was gone.
“Huh.” Lena stood up and walked out too. “I guess we don’t know much about Mari.” She would know the most since she’s worked here the longest, so coming from her was even more strange.
“Why is everyone being so weird today?” Addy looked at me like I had lobsters coming from my ears. “Whatever, let’s plan this date.” She sat down on the couch and patted the spot next to her.
“Before I get too far ahead, can you watch Shane on Saturday night?” I’m not sure why was I nervous, she never said no to me.
Addy smiled softly. “Of course.” She nodded once then straightened back out. “Now tell me, what are we wearing to this date?”
Chapter 7
Maitland
Brandon was not helpful in the least. All week he fucking bugged me about this date with Sophia. He got in my head about being a nerd and not being smooth, but I knew Sophia. We’d been messaging back and forth for two months since signing the contract with City Women. I always helped her, I knew her but I just didn’t know her in person. Just over messenger.
I pulled on my black pants, gray suspenders and white shirt. Then put a small amount of gel into my hair to make it look wavy and not poofy, then put on my black rimmed glasses. This would have to be it. Theo’s was a nice place, but not super fancy. “Alright Maitland, you can do this. You know Sophia. She’s not a stranger. You’ve been talking for a while now.” I shook my hands out, then picked up the chocolates and flowers off of the counter. People still did that right?
It was a short drive downtown from my house and I saw Sophia as I parked. She was getting out of an rideshare at the entry. Shit. Why was I so sweaty all of the sudden? After nearly dropping the flowers, then the chocolates, I walked in. This wouldn’t be hard. She seemed so nice on the computer. I also had more time to react in the chat though. My responses would be in real time.
“Mate?” Her voice cut through the anxious thoughts that riddled my mind. “Are those for me?” She smiled sweetly and I was speechless. Sophia was everything I pictured. She was tall, wearing flats, in a pair of high waisted pants and a cropped long sleeved shirt and a scarf as a headband. Her hair was up in a low ponytail and curled. I was stunned into silence. “Oh, are you okay?” She put her hand on my arm and squeezed, “Mate?”
“Shit. Yeah. These are for you.” I thrusted the flowers and chocolates into her hands and she luckily caught them. I should just leave now. This was a disaster. There was a reason I hid behind my computer.
“Your table is this way.” A hostess grabbed two menus and walked us to the back of the restaurant and to a booth along the back wall. “Your waiter will be right with you.”
“Thank you.” Sophia said politely and then it was just the two of us again. “It’s really great to see the person behind the computer.” She had a beautiful smile, I loved looking at her.
I needed to get out more. I’m sure that staring at someone wasn’t polite but how could I not stare at her. A skin-crawling silence fell between us. I should say something. I should definitely say something. Literally anything. I started to say, “It’s nice here.” But she also started saying something then slammed her mouth shut and motioned for me to continue. Fuck. “It’s nice to see you too.” Oh. My. God. I’m a fucking idiot. Maybe Brandon was right, I wasn’t cut out for dating someone.
Chapter 8
Sophia
I hated watching Mate squirm across from me and anything I tried to do to help made it worse. When I spoke, he spoke. When I didn’t speak, he didn’t either. Fuck this was failing and quickly. “I like the flowers.” I pointed to the beautiful bouquet next to me. They were something I would have picked out for myself, multi colored daisies with a bright bow tied around them.
“I thought you might.” His eyes darted around, looking at anything but me. I didn’t take it personally, but I couldn’t come up with another way to make him more comfortable either.
“The chocolates are sweet too.” I contemplated touching his arm but I didn’t. That might fluster him more. The waiter came by and took our orders, then it was just us again.
“I hope you don’t have any allergies.” He looked between the chocolates and me.
I vigorously shook my head no and he was visibly relieved. “Good. Good.” Then his leg went back to shaking so hard the table was vibrating. “What do you do at City Women?”
Small talk. Painful small talk. We were better than this. We talked often and we were way better than this. “I’m Adelaide’s assistant. But I help out where I’m needed.”
“That’s cool.” He looked down at his phone, then back at me.
This was not how I saw this going. He did look how I imagined though. Mate looked dapper, right up to his glasses. We’d video chatted before, explaining to me our new email set up, so I knew what he looked like. Just not what his body looked like. I saw the shirt spreading over his biceps, the boy was muscular under the nerdy outer shell. I wanted to see more. I wanted the Mate that I’d chatted with back. He was so confident and cool. But I was also bombing this date, so it wasn’t all him.
“Mate, that’s an interesting name. Is that short for something?”
Without blinking he said, “Yeah. It’s short for G’day Mate. Mate is actually my middle name.”
I was stunned. He didn’t break into a laugh so now I was second guessing if he was joking or not. Maybe his parents were jokesters or hated him. I don’t know! I think he saw me struggling because he started to laugh. “It’s short for Maitland.” He said finally and I collapsed onto the table into my arms.
“Fuck me.” I hid my face in my hands. “That’s a good joke.”
“I know. I’ve been using it my entire life.” He sat back and his leg stopped shaking. “Sophia is a pretty name.”
“It was my grandma’s name.” I loved my Grandma. She was amazing and it was an honor to be named after her.
“I’m sure she was as beautiful as you.” He put his hand on the table and I took the invite and held his hand. He complimented me and my grandma. Swoon.
Marry. Me. Now. “Maitland is a cool name.” I mused. “I like it better than Mate.”
“That’s good I guess.” He leaned forward, “This would never work if you didn’t like it.”
THIS was the guy I knew.
THIS was the guy I loved to chat with when I was being impatient.
THIS was the guy I wanted to meet in person.
As the night progressed and our food was served the conversation got easier and easier and by the end of the night we were both laughing and enjoying ourselves.
Chapter 9
Maitland
I don’t know why I was so nervous. I literally just had to be myself and Sophia was laughing and joking with me. As I waited for her ride share with her, she kept touching my arm and shoulder. It was innocent but also I wanted just a little bit more.
“Maitland, I am really glad we did this.” She squeezed my hand and I took that as an invite to step closer. Her eyes searched my face for my intention but I didn’t even know that. Before I could act on anything, a car pulled up to the curb with a glowing rideshare light in the window.
Shit.
I froze. I wanted at least a little taste before she left. Something to solidify the night. Something to bring her back to me as more than computer help. “Hold on Sophia.” I pulled her back and she bumped into my chest, nearly dropping the flowers and chocolates. Fuck. Why did I have to be so goddamn awkward?
Luckily, Sophia acted quickly and sat the stuff down next to us, then resumed what I’d started. “I think you meant to do this.” Then she put her hands on the sides of my face and leaned down. “I had a really great time, Maitland.” Then she placed the softest kiss on my lips before stepping back, picking up the flowers and chocolates and getting into the ride share. I watched them drive away and was still stunned until someone nearly walked into me on the sidewalk.
I drove home in a trance, thinking about Sophia. How her hands felt on my face or all the times she reassured me by putting her hand on mine. She was so beautiful and so far out of my league.
The shower was even worse. I licked my lips slowly thinking about how her lips felt on mine, then I found myself slowly stroking my dick. The contact felt so fucking good. I needed a release after tonight,I cannot remember the last time I was with a woman, let alone one that I was actually interested in.
The images of her on her knees in front of me with makeup running down her face while she sucked on my dick made me moan. She’d use one hand to cup my balls and the other to work the shaft. She’d look like a queen at my feet with my hands buried in her long, black hair.
My breath caught in my throat and I let go just before I came. I would not come unless it was because she was here. I quickly finished my shower before I did anything I’d regret and went to bed. I needed to find a way to go out with Sophia again.
Chapter 10
Sophia
I didn’t expect Maitland to ask me to come back to his place, but I at least wanted to get a kiss. Which is why I took charge. And I’m glad that I did. Being that close to him was intoxicating. He smelled incredible, I wanted to know what kind of cologne that he put on or did he just smell like that normally.
Laying in bed I stared at the ceiling, before kicking the empty box of chocolates off the bed. Fuck me, I’m an idiot. Hopefully I didn’t make a fool of myself tonight. My phone vibrated next to me and I jumped for it. Maybe it was Maitland.
Addy: How did it go?
I saw her for a few minutes when I got home, but with Shane there I didn’t want to get into the details too much. He didn’t need to know about anyone until it was serious.
Me: Fine.
Addy: Fine?
Me: I’m at home.
Addy: I know that. Dummy.
Me: That tells you everything you need to know.
Addy: Did it go okay though?
Me: Yeah. He’s super funny.
Addy: And…
Of course she was reading between the lines. She knew me better than anyone.
Me: And nervous. He brought me flowers. It was so sweet.
Addy: I saw them, they were very much you. I wouldn’t expect any less. Have a good night!
That was cryptic. Okay then, I scrubbed my hands down my face before rolling over. I needed to find a way to go out with Maitland again.
Chapter 11
Sophia
Monday morning, I sat with my fingers tented under my chin watching the circle spin on the screen in front of me. I fucking hated this. All I needed to do was to schedule something on Addy’s calendar. “Hey girl!” Marigold sat down in front of me. “Still having computer issues?”
“Literally always.” I groaned and dropped my forehead down on the desk.
“Well, I have a surprise for you.” When I met her gaze, she was grinning wide but didn’t say anything.
“And that would be…” I waved my hands in the air. “Spit it out woman!”
She got up and headed for the door. “You’ll see, but be ready at one today. We have company coming.”
“Company!” I jumped up and nearly fell over my backpack on the floor. “Wait, who is coming? Is it Capitol IT? Marigold, you cannot do this to me!”
Silence fell down the hallway as she walked into her office and the door closed. Shit. What would I say to Maitland if I saw him again? Would I make a fool of myself? Probably. I always fucking did, why would he be any different?
“Why are you just standing there?” Lena’s voice said from behind me.
“Is someone coming to the office this afternoon?” She’d tell me. Lena was a nice, quiet girl. She wouldn’t betray me.
Or would she…the look on her face was nothing short of mischievous. “Why would you be asking me?”
“Because you're supposed to be the good one.” I exclaimed and slammed my hands over my face.
“I am.” She started laughing. “I might surprise you Sophia. Capitol IT is coming this afternoon for a system upgrade. New computers, upgraded internet and I hear that cutie Mate is coming for laptop setup.”
My heart was in my throat. Of course he was. The exact thing I’d need him for. “What time is it?”
“Noon.” Lena continued on to her office. “See you later then…” She sang behind her and then the door closed.
Chapter 12
Maitland
I was excited to see Sophia again, but this wasn’t a social call. I needed to set up laptops for the employees, Sophia included. Brandon was doing internet upgrades and I was in charge of setting up computers and transferring information. As in sitting with each woman and working with them to get their settings matched up to make the transition as seamless as possible.
Brandon and I loaded up the computers onto the cart and rode up on the elevator. “Nervous?” Brandon elbowed my side.
“No.” I huffed. “Why would I be?”
“Doesn’t your little girlfriend work here?”
“She’s not my girlfriend. We went out once.” I crossed my arms refusing to look at him. I kinda wish she was my girlfriend.
“Well, you’ll get to work intimately with her.” He crooned. “Setting up computers involves close proximity and I’m assuming you didn’t sleep with her yet given your less than pleasant attitude.”
“Fuck off Brandon.” When I looked at him he just shrugged. “Please don’t embarrass me.” I pleaded. I didn’t need him prodding at me like this.
“I’ll be busy working on the internet. And you’ll need that before you can work on the laptops…”
I slowly turned to him. “Wait, are you helping me?”
“You deserve to be happy dude and she makes you smile like an idiot at your computer screen.” He pretended to be a player but he’s just as weird and sheltered as I was. Reading romance books and talking a big game.
“Are you being…nice?” I shoved his shoulder and he rubbed it like it actually hurt him.
He didn’t answer because the doors opened and I was speechless. Sophia was standing at the desk talking to someone else. “Hey Maitland, I’m supposed to show you to the conference room.”
The other woman headed for Brandon, “And I’m supposed to show you to the internet.” Brandon laughed under his breath.
“Show me the internet?” He picked up the box we brought with us that had new cords and a new modem. “Right. Not IT people. Got it.”
“Excuse me. You knew what I was talking about.” The woman swatted his arm then pointed down the hall. “Get going.”
“Marigold won’t let him get away with that attitude.” Sophia busted out laughing, then softened as she looked at me. “How are you?”
“I’m good. Where are we going?” I picked up the handle for the cart we were using.
“Right this way.” She motioned to a large room off to the left of us. “I have Lena in right now, Addy’s next then me.”
“Saving the best for last I see.” I winked and she shook her head. I was not this smooth, but today apparently I was and a million points for me. I followed Sophia to the conference room and she sat down, watching me as I unpacked each computer. Then I got to hers which I picked out specifically for her. It was a purple computer where the others were black. I also might have tweaked it a bit, but she didn’t need to know that. Not right now.
“This is cool.” She ran her long fingers over the box, then smiled up at me. “Am I special?”
“Something like that.”
“Can I open it?”
“Of course.” I then sat down next to her. She ripped at the tape then carefully opened the box and slid the computer out. “I already downloaded the programs you’ll need.”
“This is so cool Maitland.” She admired the color again and I had to laugh. I just knew she’d like it.
“You can just call me Mate, like everyone else does.”
“Would you prefer G’day?” She didn’t even finish her sentence before she started to giggle. “I’m sorry, I couldn’t help myself.”
We both looked up as Lena and Addy came in and picked up their computers and chargers. In unison they said, “We don’t need help.” Then they walked out of the conference room.
“Alrighty then, I guess it’s just you and me Maitland.” Sophia scooted over next to me and opened her new computer. “Where do we begin?”
Chapter 13
Maitland
Having Sophia so close to me for hours was not helping me one bit. I should have jerked off in the shower, because I was rock hard the entire time. At least I had a longer sweater on to cover myself, otherwise I’d look like a creep. She didn’t seem to notice or if she did, she didn’t care. She was also fully leaning on me, her head on my shoulder, or her hand on my arm or at one point my thigh.
“I guess I’m all set then.” She sat back and closed the computer.
“I guess you are.” I answered, disappointed at how quickly the afternoon went.
Brandon came around the corner with a stupid grin on his face. “Ready to go Mate?”
“Yeah.” I made sure to pull my sweater down, then picked up my stuff. “See you around Sophia.” I waved behind me, afraid to face her head on. I might royally embarrass myself. As we got into the elevator Brandon started laughing.
“See you around Sophia.” He mocked me with the little wave that I did too. “That was cute.”
“Fuck off.”
“Alright. Alright. I’ll stop. That was cute though. She’s good for you. Normally you don’t talk so much.” Brandon was one of the few friends that I had, and I didn’t mean to be a dick to him but also, he didn’t leave shit alone. “Like right now, say something. You're making me feel bad.” He bumped my shoulder and I gave him the side eye. “Don’t do me like that. I was kidding!”
I couldn’t stay mad at him for long, “Alright fine. But just let up a little bit. Yeah?”
“Will do.” He saluted me as the doors opened and imagine my surprise when Sophia was standing there. I had to do a double take to see if the elevator moved. “Sophia?”
“You uh, forgot this.” She held up my phone and I patted my pockets. Sure enough, I didn’t have my phone with me. “It’s going to be hard to ask me out if you don’t have your phone.”
“Nice.” Brandon mumbled as he pushed me towards her, then walked out to where we parked. “Don’t fuck this up.”
After an internal eye roll, I managed to compose myself and get my phone from Sophia. “For an IT guy, you should really lock your phone.” She grinned.
“What did you do?” She had the calendar open and had saved time in my very open schedule for dinner this weekend. “Nice.”
“It was clear you weren’t going to make the first move after flirting all afternoon. It’s okay though. It would be annoying if both of us were bold.” With a shrug she headed towards the stairs. “See you this weekend Maitland.”
I was stunned. Floored. Ecstatic. I had another date with Sophia and she fucking GOT me. Like I didn’t have to try with her. I could just be me and my extremely awkward self and she GOT it. I wanted to show her I could be more. Then I got an idea that would hopefully push us in the direction of relieving the pressure that I had been fighting all afternoon.
Chapter 14
Sophia
I practically skipped back up to my office, pleased with myself for taking the initiative again. If Maitland needed me to take the charge on us going out, I’d do it. Maitland was so sweet and funny, we’d balance each other out perfectly.
Listen to me. We’d only been on one date and I was thinking of all the ways we were perfect together.
“You look…happy?” Addy said from behind her new laptop. I had established for her to hang out with Shane Saturday night before I even made the appointment in his calendar.
“I am happy. Thank you very much. Why did you hesitate?” I put my hands on my hips.
“I hesitated because you also look feral. I’m a little scared for the meek IT guy.” She laughed. “You are…a lot.”
“I’m not a lot. I’m just enough. You love me.” I swatted the air, then decided to be a menace and tipped over her pen cup like a cat looking to start trouble.
This just made Addy laugh hysterically as she picked up her pens. “I do love you. Now, it’s almost time to clock out. Movie night? Popcorn? Candy? Maybe invite the girls over for dinner?”
“Yes. Yes and Yes. Your place please.” Shane would love a night to himself playing video games in his room,I’m sure. He got tired of me roping him into a movie night. Moody teenagers were something I never saw myself dealing with.
She nodded yes and started to pack up. “Round up the girls and we’ll get out of here.”
“Wait Addy!” I grabbed her arm and pulled her back. “Are you free this weekend to watch Shane? Overnight…” I let my voice trail off. I know it was presumptuous to assume that I’d be sleeping over with Maitland but I knew I would at least be out late.
She grinned. “I can be free if it’s for what I think.”
I matched her smile. “It is. I hope it is anyway.” I tried to pass off a casual shrug but I was too wound up right now.
She gave my arm a squeeze. “You deserve this. Go on your date. I’ll take care of Shane.”
I couldn’t wait to tell them more about Maitland, but what could I really say? I didn’t know anything about the man. That’s when I decided, at our next date, I’d have something else to say other than he’s really cute and funny.
Chapter 15
Maitland
My computer dinged and my heart skipped a beat. Delivered.
The first part of my surprise was in Sophia’s hands. Hopefully. Otherwise it was about to get very awkward working with City Women Media.
My date with Sophia was tomorrow night and I hoped she’d wear what I got her. I had the perfect ending to the night planned out to the T, I just needed her to do this one thing…
It was Saturday night, I was dressed in a suit, and we were going to a nice restaurant. Nicer than Theos. I picked it. She did the hard part and asked me out again, I could at least pick the place to go. I also had the package that I sent her and I was more than excited about that. Then I could finally show her I wasn’t just the cute, quiet IT guy she thought that I was.
I opened the app on my phone and saw that the device was activated. She turned it on at least. Now to see if she was wearing it. “Hey!” I waved to Sophia from the sidewalk and she jogged across the street. “You look amazing.”
“Thank you.” She did a spin and her dress flared out. “It’s a vintage dress that I picked up a while back. It matches my shoes.” She pointed her toe out in front of her. “Like them?” When I met her gaze she was batting her lashes at me.
“I do, very beautiful.” What else are you wearing under that dress?
STOP. Don’t be a creep. But you did send her a wearable vibrator. You are kind of a creep. But she did show up, so she wasn’t scared away. Or she didn’t get it. “Can we go in? It’s cold.” Goosebumps covered her skin.
Shit. Now I was really second guessing if she received my surprise.
“Of course, right this way.” I put my arm out and she took it. Time to enjoy our date with a little twist of my own.
Chapter 16
Sophia
This seemingly quiet IT guy sent me a fucking wearable, app operated vibrator and you know what? Fucking BET. I’ll wear it and let him use it on me. He only intensified my keen interest into the depth of his soul and apparently he was a kinky motherfucker.
Once we sat down he conveniently sat me on the inside of the booth. I was itching to know what he planned but of course he was being a gentleman. Tie me the fuck up dude, show me what you got!
Rein yourself in Sophia. “I’ll have red wine please.” I said politely, then Maitland ordered a beer.
“How was work this week?” Maitland put his hand on my thigh and I melted into his side. He was making the first move. He only responded with a chuckle to my dramatic response to his question. “Have you been excited about this?”
How can he say something that was so innocent but also so suggestive? “I have. I like spending time with you. The surprise this week was…fun.”
“Oh, you like your new computer then?” He asked innocently.
Of course he wouldn’t make me come out and mention the vibrator. “I do. It works great. I think the guy who gave it to me might have put himself out of a job.”
“That is unfortunate.” Maitland leaned in, pressing his lips to the shell of my ear. “I was looking forward to helping you.”
My mouth dropped open. I don’t know who this man was but he made me want more. So much more. “Then you shouldn’t give me all the tools to help myself.” I know that was not smooth in the least. His hand running up and down my thigh was distracting.
The waiter walked up and we ordered dinner, then it was just us again. The few minutes break was enough time to regroup. “Can you please tell me what else that new device does?”
“Of course.” He answered politely, then pulled out his phone and put it in front of us with an app open. “If I push this…” A vibrating started in a low pulse. I gasped and he cocked his head looking at me. “Are you alright dear?”
I cleared my throat, then managed a head not yes. The list of options for the vibrator was extensive. Ranging from teasing to relentless. That was literally what the range was called. I was sincerely hoping that he wouldn’t use the ‘relentless’ settings in the restaurant.
“Sophia, we should establish some ground rules.” Maitland stopped the vibrating and I leaned back, I didn’t realize I was holding so much tension in my body. “Answer me this, what’s the universal sign for surrender?”
I didn’t expect this kind of question when he mentioned rules. “A white flag.” I answered slowly.
“Good girl.” He put the white cloth napkin in my lap. “When you are ready to surrender, you drop your napkin on the ground.”
That was clever and discreet. Then I started to overthink…had he done this with some other woman before? Did I care? We were both adults, we both had dated other people. What difference did it make? “What’s going on in that head of yours?” Maitland brushed my hair off of my shoulder. “Tell me Sophia.”
“I’m thinking about how you come off as an innocent IT guy, but then there’s this guy and I think I’m in love.” I answered quietly.
“This isn’t love. This is lust.” He responded, “And the feeling is mutual.”
I think my mouth dried up. I slowly licked my lips and then the well timed waiter came back with our food. He sat the plates down and Maitland started to eat casually, like he didn’t just nearly make me orgasm with a mere statement.
Chapter 17
Maitland
This night was going exactly how I planned.
Sophia was hanging on my every word and I couldn’t ask for more than that…right now anyway. She ate slowly next to me, giving me glances sideways, as she ate. Waiting for my next move, which is right where I wanted her. “Don’t fill up on dinner, I have a plan for dessert.”
She slowly put her fork down and pushed her plate forward. “Okay.”
The waiter came back, took our plates, then asked about dessert. “We’d like the brownie sundae to go please. Extra whip cream.” I glanced at Sophia and she shuffled side to side. The vibrator might not be on, but it still provided pressure where I’m sure she wasn’t quite getting what she needed. That is something only I could provide. Once the waiter walked off I got my phone back out and put it between us. “Select which option you are most comfortable with right now.”
She had the choice to drop her napkin and forfeit the game, but I’m confident that she wasn’t a quitter. She hovered over the top options, but didn’t pick one. “Remember this is what you want, not what you think I want from you.”
Her eyes met mine, then she picked the top teasing option, her body jolted but she didn’t let on otherwise that anything was going on. “Good girl Sophia.” I kissed her shoulder. “For the record, that’s the one I would have picked for you. The first time I see you come won’t be in a restaurant full of people.”
“Holy fuck.” Sophia hung her head and rocked back and forth slowly. “Maitland. I need more of this side of you.” Her voice was soft and breathy.
“You’ll see more and you’ll love it.” I answered as I pressed the stop button on the app, making her gasp. The waiter came back with the dessert packaged up and the check. I gave him my card right away and he hustled away from the table. I slid out from the booth, then put my hand out for her. “My place tonight?”
I’d leave her the option to go home, although I didn’t get the feeling she’d take it. I hoped she wouldn’t take it. “Yes please.” She answered eagerly and took my hand. “Maitland, you wouldn’t leave me hanging would you?”
“Never Dear, never.” She slid out of the booth as the waiter came back with my card and I tucked it away into my wallet. She giggled all the way out to my car.
I opened the passenger door for Sophia and she slid in, then I leaned down and buckled her in. Brushing my hand across her lap and she smiled up at me. Then when I got in, I put my phone in the middle. “Do you see the range?” She nodded yes. “I named them. I want you to select one for the ride home.”
Her eyes got big. “The one I want, or the one I think you want?”
“What did I say in the restaurant?”
“What am I comfortable with?” Then she looked at my phone again. “Okay.” Her finger hovered above teasing, then she picked the one just below it and her body jolted, making me laugh quietly. “Oh wow.” She leaned her head back and closed her eyes.
“That stays there until we get back to my place.” Sophia rolled her head towards me and smiled. “You cannot come yet.”
“Can you?” She glanced down at my tented pants, then back up at me. “Maitland, would you like to come before we get to your place?” I seriously thought about it as I put the car in drive. She didn’t know my place was only ten minutes away, and I’d be curious to see if she could get me off before we got there. “Maitland…” She traveled her hand up my thigh and stroked my length slowly.
“Sophia.” I said with warning, using her name as a no and she put her hand back on her lap. “I want you to edge yourself for the next 8 minutes.”
“You live that close?” She looked at the phone, probably regretting not choosing the lowest setting.
Chapter 18
Sophia
I didn’t know what would happen if I didn’t do what Maitland said, but I also kind of wanted to see what he was capable of. Per his instruction I should not come before we got to his house and I had less than, now, seven minutes. And I couldn’t turn down the setting. “Can I at least touch you while I sweat over here?” Seeing and feeling his reaction would be gratifying.
“Only my thigh.” Perfect. I rested my hand on this thigh just below his cock and squeezed, then leaned my head back and closed my eyes. I really wanted to do what he told me to. As I breathed through the pressure in my core I could feel his eyes on me periodically.
“Drive Maitland.” I said without looking at him. His laugh was the only response I got. I opened my eyes when we stopped moving and I heard a garage door. Then the insistent vibrating stopped. My body slumped in the passenger seat and I peeled my hand off of his thigh. He got out of the car silently, and I tracked him walking around the car to my door, then it opened and he put his hand out. “Why don’t we go inside, yeah?”
“Yeah.” I let him pull me up and lead me into his house. He could be a serial killer and I’d be walking right into his trap and at this point I wouldn’t even be mad about it. I’ve had a great time.
Maitland dropped my hand in the middle of his living room and my feet stopped moving. “Sophia…” He called out to me in a sing-song voice. “Come here…”
I followed his voice to the kitchen where he was putting the dessert away. Then he opened a bottle of wine. I was suddenly disappointed. Would he continue to taunt me? How long would this go on for? “Come here.” He pointed to the spot in front of him, then it occurred to me that he only got out one wine glass. I watched as he took a small swig of the wine, and his throat bobbed as he swallowed. “Do you know how this would taste better?”
“How?”
“If it came from you.” He poured another small amount into the glass and held it up for me. “Drink Sophia.” I tipped the contents slowly into my mouth, then held it there. We stood nose to nose and he leaned forward, pressing his lips to mine, then slid his tongue into my mouth and the wine spilled between his lips and into his mouth. He held my face to his as he swallowed slowly, then pulled away. “I was right, much better.”
This slow and steady method was killing me. I just wanted him to use me. Right now. In his kitchen, no holds barred. “Maitland, please.” I don’t know where the pitiful voice came from but he wasn’t buying it given the look on his face. “I just want you.”
“You’ll have me, but first, we will see just how far you can go.” He poured another glass of wine. “On your knees, this glass is for you.” I dropped down, then opened my mouth like a fucking idiot, he cupped my chin in his hands and slowly poured, using his hand to catch the drip that ran down. Then ever so gently slipped his fingers into my mouth. “Suck.” I closed my lips around his fingers and swirled my tongue around. Maitland closed his eyes for a moment then opened them slowly. “Fuck that’s good.”
He slowly pulled his fingers out of my mouth and walked around me, then was gone.
Chapter 19
Maitland
I needed a minute.
If I spent any more time playing with Sophia I’d come in my pants like a teenager. It was bad enough that I was in the master bathroom slowly jerking off to hopefully relieve some kind of pressure before I went back out there. The way her tongue felt on my fingers lapping up the wine, fuck me that was glorious. I thought I heard footsteps but I didn’t stop.
If she thought she’d get in trouble for watching me jerk off, she was sorely mistaken. I loved being watched and I loved watching. I braced my hand on the counter and looked at her curious face in the reflection on the mirror briefly before I went back to dreaming about how she’d feel wrapped around my cock. How her muscles would spasm when I finished inside her, raw.
I growled out her name as cum spurted onto my hand and the floor in front of me. I could make her clean it up, with her mouth…but I wouldn’t. I composed myself as I cleaned up my mess then opened the door the rest of the way and she was sitting on the bed in only her bra and underwear. “You are a beautiful specimen Sophia.” I was now completely naked and she was mine for the taking. “Can you show me how good my little surprise can make you feel? Show me just how beautiful you sound when you come?”
“I’d love to.” She pointed to my phone on the nightstand, then opened her legs wider. “Come here Maitland.”
I walked up and stood between her knees. “It’s your turn I suppose, what would you want from me?”
“I want you to use the present you so graciously gave me and make me come. Finally.” She huffed out the ‘finally’. “I’m very turned on. Especially now that I’ve seen you touch yourself.”
“Lean back.” I pushed Sophia with only my index finger and she easily fell backwards. I wanted her just a bit closer, a bit more vulnerable. I hooked my elbows behind her knees and pulled her towards me and pushed her legs further apart. “Look at you…so fucking beautiful for me.” With the lightest touch, I ran my hands up her sides, then back down to her hips. She arched her back into my touch and moaned.
“Maitland, please.” I met her needy gaze and she whimpered. “This is on your terms isn’t it?”
“Yes.” I picked up my phone and opened the app for the vibrator again. “Let’s see what we can do.”
Chapter 20
Sophia
I couldn’t take my eyes off of Maitland. He was standing between my knees like a Greek god. My eyes tracked him as he picked up his phone then pressed on the screen and the vibrating started low. Now that I knew what to expect I didn’t jump like before. “You're doing so good for me. Let's go up a level.” The vibrating was still lower, not as intense as I assumed it could go. “I can see that you're soaked Sophia.”
“I am.” I said quietly, making sure I didn’t say something that would make him stop.
Without warning he went up another level and now it was getting intense. I was struggling to remember just how many levels there were when I looked at the app in the restaurant. “Breathe baby.” He used his free hand to ground me, running it up my chest then back down and resting it on my hip.
“Why won’t you fuck me?” I asked through breaths. He turned up the intensity again.
“In due time Sophia.” He answered politically. “Now, how about a little bit more.” The vibrator started low then ramped up, then did that again. And again. And again. I was so distracted focusing on the vibrating that I missed his fingers sliding into me. “Fuck. Your pussy is spasming. Do you want to come?”
I quickly nodded yes and Maitland turned off the vibrator, then pulled my underwear off. Maitland was methodical. He didn’t do anything accidentally. Well, that is now that he was comfortable with me.
Our first day was awkward at first. I won’t deny that. Once he relaxed though, it was game on. I was fighting for my life to keep up with his charm. Maitland’s cock was hard between us and I itched to touch him but he seemed to be averse to that. I gripped the sheets and arched my back again. “So beautiful…” He didn’t seem to be talking to me. More like he was cataloging my body with his hands. Slowly running them up my sides, then down my chest. Then he’d run them up and down my legs. “Close your eyes.” He said quietly and I forced my eyes closed. Despite the need to see every one of his muscles flex as he controlled his breathing. “Now, take a deep breath.” I took a breath at the same time as he did and he sunk his cock into me slowly.
I had never been with anyone that took their time. It was normally a drunken night out that led to going back to their place and me leaving before the sun came up. At this rate, I’d be exhausted and staying the night. I’d actually wake up with someone and I didn’t mind one bit.
With my eyes still closed, I just enjoyed how Maitland felt between my legs, how his cock felt moving in and out slowly. How his breathing was slowly and controlled. The bed dipped on either side of me from him putting his hands next to me. “You are taking my cock so well Sophia.” Oh god, he didn’t miss a beat from what he said to what he did. “I want to feel you coming around my cock while I fill you up.”
If he kept up coaching me through it, he’d need to hurry up. “Nod once if you hear me.” I nodded and he dipped his head down, pressing his lips on mine but not kissing me. “Watch.” His one word command made my eyes fly open. “You heard me. Watch how well we fit together. Watch my cock fit inside your soaked pussy perfectly.”
I was watching alright. I was watching, listening, feeling, and about to fucking lose it. Maitland’s forehead was resting on mine, he was right here with me. Feeling everything. “Can I touch you?” I asked quietly and he nodded yes. I put my hands first on the sides of his face then weaved my hands into his hair. He groaned my name, which egged me on to keep going.
I scraped my nails down his back and he groaned again. “Maitland…I really need to come.” I tried to keep the whine out of my voice. Without anymore talking, he hooked his hands behind my shoulders and he thrust deeper into me, then again and again. Picking up the excruciatingly slow pace that had me melting beneath him. I was right there, about to come and his deep moan pushed me over the edge. I wrapped my legs around him, keeping him deep inside me so that I could feel him emptying himself inside me and his muscles flexing under my fingers. “Fuck you feel so good.” I buried my face in his shoulder and took a deep breath, enjoying being surrounded by him.
This was everything I wanted it to be. I felt like I was floating back down to earth like a feather. A quiet laugh came from next to me. “Can you let me go? Don’t panic, I’ll come back. I just need to readjust.” The really sweet, honest, awkward Maitland was back and I was reminded how endearing he was. I’d never forget this or him.
Chapter 21
Maitland
The world seemed to settle around Sophia and I, as we laid in my bed. She had her head on my chest and her arm thrown over my stomach. For once I didn’t feel self conscious that I wasn’t super muscular like I used to be. I was fit, I went to the gym a few times a week but not enough to really show for it. She was perfectly soft under my fingers. I couldn’t stop my hand from roaming up and down her arm, then across her back. We didn’t talk, but we didn’t need to either. I eventually drifted off the sleep and just enjoyed the feeling of having Sophia next to me.
I am a hard sleeper. This has been a problem of mine for a long time. I sleep through alarms. I sleep through calls, texts. Everything.
To my disappointment, I slept through Sophia leaving too. I knew when I woke up she’d be gone. I just had a sneaky feeling that she would dip out as soon as I was dead to the world. In the few times that I’d met Sophia, I figured out that she was flighty. Always moving and twitching.
Although, I did have a message from her. Which honestly surprised me.
Sophia: Sorry I had to leave, had to get home to feed my cat.
I replied even though it had been a couple hours.
Me: I didn’t know you had a cat.
Sophia: Yeah
Me: I like cats. Mine was hiding when you got here though. He’s skittish.
Which prompted me to look around for Chat. He was a long haired, orange tabby.
Sophia: That’s too bad.
Me: Next time I’ll have to look for him.
I sent off a few pictures and she liked each picture, but that was the end of the conversation. I had a really great dinner and night with her. I decided though that I needed to be the one to ask her out next. I needed to take the initiative and make the first move. Before I chickened out, I texted her. I didn’t want to wait another week to see her again.
Me: Can we go out this week for coffee? I promise I won’t send you surprises in the mail this time. Just coffee.
I didn’t want Sophia to think that I was trying to use her. That wasn’t my intention. The three dots danced, then quit. Then nothing and I think I might throw up.
Sophia: I’m game.
Me: Wednesday, meet up before work?
Sophia: Works for me
I laid back again looking up at the ceiling. I really liked this woman she was amazing and beautiful and so fucking far out of my league. I’d be devastated when she figured that out too. Sitting up, I saw Chat walking into the room. He stretched, then jumped up on the bed. “Where were you? Sophia likes cats, she has one. You would have liked her.”
He meowed at me and then hopped down. Now to spend the day cleaning and fighting off the hard on thinking about having Sophia here last night.
Chapter 22
Sophia
“You said what!?” Addy screeched and Norah fell onto the floor laughing.
Once Norah composed herself, she sat up slowly. “I love that you guys keep using that line. You don’t have a fucking cat.”
“Neither do you!” Addy pointed at Norah and I was still laughing hysterically. “At this point we’ve all said that to get out of a date and we all sound insane trying to explain that we don’t have cats.”
“Who even started it?” I heard it from Addy, but I know Norah used it too. “Doesn’t even matter. It’s like girl code at this point. Use your imaginary cat to get out of your date.”
“Hold on, I thought the date went well. It sounded super hot. Why would you leave early?” Norah had a valid point and she was right. If it had been just me, it wouldn’t be a big deal if it was just me. But I had to get home before Shane realized I was gone for too long.
Shit.
Shit.
Norah and the girls didn’t know about Shane. I wanted to protect him. Not that they were bad, but I wanted to let him be a kid. Not me constantly explaining our situation to people. So I guess I was more protecting myself than him.
“You know Sophia, she likes to sleep in her own bed.” Addy added in for the save and I was forever indebted to her. She didn’t make me explain anything unless I wanted to.
“Oh yes. You’d rather drive home six hours than stay in a hotel.” Norah laughed to herself.
“Damn straight.” I agreed with her. Relieved that I didn’t have to talk about or explain Shane. “Well, that’s enough for today.” I stood up and straightened my skirt, then headed for the door. “More to come after my coffee date on Wednesday.” I waved behind me as I left Addy's office.
Wednesday morning was chaos in the worst way. Shane was being a jerk, he didn’t get out of bed then refused to get dressed until I yelled at him, which I hated doing. He missed the school bus because he dragged his feet. My coffee pot got unplugged so when I thought I turned on the coffee to brew, I didn’t. Maitland texted me a few times and I didn’t reply so I’m confident he thought I was ignoring him.
I checked the time again and I was now half an hour late for my coffee date with Maitland and I still didn’t text him that I was even running late. I’m sure I looked rough as I stumbled into the cafe. He didn’t see me right away and seeing him all dressed and put together, I almost just walked out and said I wasn’t feeling good.
“Can I help you?” The barista asked louder because I apparently zoned out the first time. This got Maitland’s attention and I was mortified as he walked over. How was I going to explain that I was late? “Ma’am?”
“Did you want something?” Maitland put his hand on my lower back and I was snapped back into reality.
“Oh, yes. Please.” I checked the menu board, but I knew what I was going to get. “Large caramel latte with oat milk and an extra shot of espresso.”
Chapter 23
Maitland
Sophia was distressed today. She wasn’t her normal perfectly put together self. I didn’t need to know her for long to know that she didn’t show people this version of herself. At least not people that she didn’t know for very long.
Once she gathered her drink, I led her back to the table I saved for us. “I was worried when you didn’t text me. I noticed you don’t drive anywhere so I thought maybe you got hurt walking here.”
“Oh. I’m so sorry. This morning was…” She cut herself off, then shrugged. “It was uncooperative.”
Her choice of words made me laugh. “I hate when that happens.” I ran my hand up and down her back and she leaned back into me. “Can you still stay for a bit or do you need to go?” I knew she had to get to work, which is why we planned the earlier meeting so I’d understand if she needed to leave early.
“I can stay. Addy is pretty chill.” As the minutes passed she relaxed more. It wasn’t much but I liked that I could be a safe place for Sophia. I didn’t want her to feel uncomfortable around me. “So how’s Chat?”
“He’s good.” I had to show her the picture of him laying at the end of the bed this morning. “How’s your cat?”
Her face fell. “About that…”
Now I was worried I missed the cat dying or something. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t pry.”
“You aren’t. That’s a perfectly reasonable question.” She shook her head. “I don’t have a cat. I needed a reason to not feel so badly about leaving you without saying goodbye.”
“You could have just said you wanted to go home.” I shrugged. “It’s okay. We’ve been on two dates, you don’t owe me an elaborate explanation.”
“Why are you so nice?” Sophia picked up her latte and took a sip. She did a little hum of approval before setting the cup back down. “Thank you. I would like to meet Chat though. He’s very cute.”
“Like I said, next time you come by I’ll rouse him from his hiding spot. You can at least enjoy his blur as he runs to the next hiding spot.” We fell into easy conversation after that. Discussing her work, then mine. I could get really used to this. I just had to shake the idea that she was hiding something from me. The cat thing proved it. She could have easily let that go, but she didn’t. Which also gave me a little hope that we’d go on more than a few dates.
Chapter 24
Sophia
I was sitting at the end of the long conference room table with Marigold, Addy, Lena, Norah and Juniper. Marigold had her big white board cleaned off with the title ‘how to get out of dates’ on the top. This, of course, made me giggle and everyone else was making jokes about their imaginary cats.
“Alright ladies, I want to do an engagement article asking women what their funniest way to get out of a date was. I know the running joke around this place is that you have to leave to feed your cat.” We all busted out laughing. “Give me some more.”
“I left the oven on.” Lena giggled. I could never imagine her using that to get out of a date with any of the gorgeous men she was dating.
Marigold jotted it down, then turned around. “Alright, c’mon ladies. I know we have more lame excuses.” Her face brightened, “Oh I have one. I left the fridge open.”
I jumped in, “Having a friend call with an emergency.”
“Excellent.” Marigold wrote down my answer too. “More…” She waved her hands enthusiastically. “Juniper, I know you have your cute baker now but you had to have had some lame excuses.”
Juniper just started laughing uncontrollably. “I used the cat excuse.”
“NO!” Addy smacked her arm. “You did not!”
“I did.” Juniper nearly fell over laughing.
“Girls, we can do better than this.” Mari put her hands on her hips. “Think about it. Now onto more pressing business. I brought Juniper in to give up numbers for the month.”
“Numbers? How specific of you.” Juniper laughed. “But everything is going really well. Now that we are getting more into the social media side of things, engagement has been high and in turn we’ve almost doubled profit from last month.”
“That’s amazing.” Lena said quietly and we all hummed in agreement. I loved working here for this very reason. These women were all from different walks of life and yet here we were, getting along and just loving each other for who we were. “Anything that needs to be improved?”
“Obviously physical sales are down, but that’s largely due to the way online availability has increased. If we can keep pushing interactive magazines, then it’ll keep balancing out.” Juniper was brilliant and proposed the idea of digital magazines that you could highlight and comment in like if you had a physical copy. It was easy enough to implement and sales rocketed again when we rolled it out. I wished that I could be half as clever as she was.
I was pulled away from the meeting by my phone buzzing, quickly I excused myself and answered it. “Is this Ms. Sophia?”
“Yes.” I didn’t even think to check the phone number, I just always assumed it was the school calling me for Shane.
“Shane has been throwing up for the past hour.” Shit. The woman paused waiting for my response but I was too busy scrambling to figure out how to get away from work. “He’s asking to go home and we would require…”
I cut her off, “Of course. I’m sorry. I’ll be right there.”
Addy stepped out of the conference room and pulled me to the side. “All good?”
“I have to go pick up Shane, he’s puking.”
“Of course. Go. We can figure it out here.” She half hugged me as we walked back to my office. “Take care of your brother.” I set up an ride share and jogged for the elevator, pulling on my coat and trying not to trip on my boots that had come untied.
When the doors opened on the elevator, I froze. Maitland was standing right there and in any other circumstance I would have been elated, but right now I was kind of in a hurry. Actually really in a hurry. “Hey.” I brushed past him and towards the door. “I can’t talk now, but I’ll text you later.”
When I glanced behind me before getting into the car, he was left standing in the lobby looking confused. Shit. I didn’t mean to be rude but I needed to leave and if I thought I didn’t have time to explain Shane earlier, I really don’t now.
Chapter 25
Sophia
Shane spent the remainder of the day in the bathroom, while I attempted to work in my office. The good thing about a thirteen year old is that they were fairly self sufficient. He didn’t want nor need me anywhere near him when he was sick. I checked on him half an hour ago and didn’t see him come trudging past my open office door so I assumed he was still in the bathroom.
Addy kept me updated on their meeting but it was pretty easy stuff. A lot of spitballing ideas for the next issue and for the year. Then Marigold would assign out the projects and everyone would disperse.
That brought me to Maitland. I tried to push him out of my mind. The sad look on his face as I ran through the lobby or the sad bag of to-go food that I would assume was for me in his hands. I humiliated him. Ruining his surprise by coming to the office. I didn’t think he’d ever talk to me again. I stared at my silenced phone, he didn’t text me or ask if I was okay. At this point he probably thought I was insane.
Addy: How’s Shane?
Me: He’s still puking.
Addy: I’m sorry. Hopefully you don’t get sick too.
Me: Agreed.
Addy: Mate was here.
Me: I know I ran into him in the lobby.
Addy: He brought everyone lunch.
Me: That’s nice of him.
Addy: He asked if you were okay, you should text him.
I let that message sit for a moment. Addy knew me and she knew that I was sitting here stewing over ditching everyone today. Which I was.
Addy: He was worried about you too. MESSAGE. HIM.
Me: Yes MOM
She sent a laughing out loud GIF. I know I needed to message him. There was nothing wrong with that deduction. It was perfectly reasonable to text someone and on top of that, I told him that I would text him. But what if he was mad at me for running off? What if he thought I was ignoring him?
Addy: MESSAGE. THAT. GODDAMN. MAN. NOW.
I burst out laughing at her message. She was the voice of reason and I’d have to credit her if Maitland and I ended up dating.
After typing out probably fifteen different versions of a message to Maitland I landed on…
Me: Sorry about this morning.
Yep. Fifteen attempts to land on that basic ass message. He didn’t reply right away which made me want to puke with Shane. Now I was just staring at the black screen on my phone like an idiot. Maybe he was really mad at me. I didn’t actually make that up in my head.
I needed to do something other than stare at my phone, so now was as good a time as any to check on Shane again. I left my phone in my office on purpose, then walked down the hall and saw him lying in bed with a bucket next to him. “Buddy, do you need anything?” I didn’t dare go into the petri dish if I didn’t have to.
“I’m okay.” He answered quietly. Well, now what?
Chapter 26
Maitland
I’m not I know what happened this morning. I wanted to surprise the City Women office and particularly Sophia with lunch, then she barely acknowledged me on the way out the door. Which left me staring at my messages.
Sophia: Sorry about this morning.
That was it. No explanation, not that I was owed one but still. She acted like she didn’t even know me and on top of that she was just as disheveled as she was at coffee this morning. If anything I was worried about her. Which led me to staring at my work chat and Adelaide’s name was pulled up.
Was it my place to check on Sophia via her boss? No.
Was I worried enough to consider it? Yes.
It was still business hours, so it wouldn’t be unreasonable to message her right now. Fuck it.
Me: Hello Adelaide
Adelaide: Hello
Me: I have a non-work related question. Is that okay?
Adelaide: Is it about Sophia?
Sophia talks about me? That made me blush for some reason, and I’m the one who bought her the vibrator.
Me: Yes.
Adelaide: She’s okay, but I think that you should talk to her.
Somehow how hearing that she was okay didn’t make me feel any better. Not like it should. My computer pinged again.
Adelaide: She has a lot going on, but you are good for her. Don’t let her chaos scare you. That’s all I’m saying.
Me: Thank you
Well that settles it. I will keep trying. Before I chickened out I pulled up a message on my phone.
Me: Sophia, call me when you get a chance.
Yep. A phone call. I said it. I wanted to hear her voice. I needed to hear that she was okay. She read the message, I saw that much. But she didn’t respond, which was fine. The ball was in her court.
Tune in Next week, February 16th for part 2.
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