Tyler

He was here again. Each time he came and sat in my section. Each time he took my advice on what to eat. Each time he asked me how I was and what I was doing. I was confused. Uncomfortable really. Why me? Why now? Wasn't it enough that he messed up my life and apologized? Why couldn't he leave me alone, and why couldn't I ask him to? He messed up the uneasy stillness of my emotions and I was afraid of what might be let loose if he kept pushing me.

"Well what's the verdict today boss?" He teased as I approached his table. I couldn't help a genuine smile, damn him.

"Chef is in a bad mood. One of the sou-chefs ruined today's soup and his daughter stayed out past curfew with her new boyfriend. Best bet is the cheese platter and pasta, that sou-chef is on his good side with the sympathy she's showing him." He chuckled and handed me his menu unopened.

"How's your day going?" He asked kindly. His eyes followed me with genuine interest. How on earth this handsome, smart, successful businessman found me interesting I had no clue. He must be mad.

"Well enough I suppose. I have to hit the library after work though because I have a paper due and my laptop is on the fritz. My next paycheck will have to go towards getting it fixed if I want to avoid further hassle." I grimaced.

"I can fix it for you." I guess my shock must have shown on my face because he took a verbal step back with a more humble look. "I mean, if you are alright with that. I am pretty adept with electronics and I can save you the fee anyways."

"Uh, sure. Yeah, thanks. I was gonna drop it off on my way over but... I guess I could just give it to you on your way out, if it's not too much trouble." I was going to turn him down, why didn't I turn him down? I was uncomfortable with my acquiescence. I walked away before I embarrassed myself. Before I changed my mind or said something stupid to cover up this uneasiness in my chest.

Lunch went smoothly after that. I watched this business paragon as he ate our food and chatted with him between services as permitted. He was enjoying himself, and I suppose I could admit I was beginning to enjoy his visits as well. How fucked up was that? I mean really, this guy had to have a ton of eligible women just dying to get his attention now that he was single again. So why was he here having lunch alone, talking to me? Did he feel obligated somehow? Like he had to give me his attention to make it up to me?

I mean sure he wasn't GQ model handsome, but he was a looker in an older gentleman sort of way. The creases around his eyes and the sharpness to his gaze the only real tells when it came to age. He was elegant, the way he moved and dressed. His clothes fitted his body like a glove rather than the loose fit of an untailored suit. His hair was neat and conservatively long, sweeping back and brushing his collar in style. The red glint to his hair was barely visible in the light from the restaurant and his blue eyes looked dark.

I must seriously have a problem with my brain. I was checking the dude out, like sizing him up in the worst way. Thoughts of that night swirled with new memories of his smile and laugh. I couldn't watch his hand go to his mouth with his fork without thinking of his grip and his forceful kiss. My chest hurt, my head hurt, and I was so confused I felt like I couldn't breathe. Yet I had agreed to see him outside the restaurant. He was going to help me with my computer for free, but oh what a cost to my sanity. Maybe I was the crazy one.

"All set?" I asked politely at the door. He put on his overcoat and left it hanging open.

"Yes, I have meetings again this afternoon but I should be able to look at your laptop this evening when I am done."

"Don't go to any trouble on my account. I mean, you should get some sleep after a busy day like that." I half hid the case that dangled in my hand with embarrassment.

"No trouble at all." He smiled and reached in to take the case from me. My heart skipped a beat.

"My info is on the tag, just text me when you are done." I backed away from him and those feelings.

"All right, see you later then." He turned and walked out.