Little Games of Love: A Novel

by Gabriela Paz

  Thankfully her tasks weren’t that challenging, though; she had to bring Ms. Dubois coffee, print papers, and occasionally when she wasn’t there, she had to show and sell her art. She had learned the history behind every painting and how much each was worth. She just hadn’t had much luck with selling any yet. Some of Ms. Dubois’s clients were even more demanding than she was, making it problematic to sell at all.

  She preferred it when Ms. Dubois was around to sell her own art; it was much more convenient and effective that way. Eva was also in charge of picking up the phone every time it rang and greeting customers politely. Her days were crazy. Ever since the first day she arrived, she hadn’t had time to think about anything or anyone, and no matter how badly she felt about standing Leo up, she hadn’t gotten a chance to truly digest what she had done. Her only consolation was that at least she got paid for all her extra hours and double on weekends, so it wasn’t all that bad.

  It was Saturday morning, and Eva had gotten to the gallery extra early. Ms. Dubois had specifically asked that before she opened, she needed to separate all the new and old client lists and categorize them by letter and date. There were hundreds of contacts, to say the least, and Eva was already dreading what was coming.

  When she was almost done reorganizing the contacts, Eva opened the gallery door to the public exactly at 11am. She liked opening a little bit later than usual. On weekdays opening was at 9am, and most days, when she didn’t work extra hours, she closed at 4pm. Ms. Dubois hadn’t arrived yet, but she always got there around noon on weekends because she liked to eat brunch with her friends.

  Eva liked it when she wasn’t around because she could get a bit of a breather, and since she had finished her morning tasks, she could sit there peacefully at the reception desk while she drank her coffee. It was a slow morning; not many people were walking in, and not many were calling. It was the first time in weeks that Eva had time to think about anything else other than work.

  She had already packed most of the stuff for college and had picked most of her classes for the first semester. She was so excited. Her classes looked so interesting and different than anything she had ever studied before. It was exhilarating for her to imagine what her life would look like after she moved to the dorm with Cece. Would it be hard to adjust? Would I meet a lot of new people?

  As her mind wandered and landed on her college departure, someone suddenly entered the gallery. At first, she thought, oh, somebody younger, great. It was easier to talk to younger people than to some of the older art experts who liked to come by and criticize the art. They were a real pain for Eva. When she looked a little closer, however, she noticed that it was Leo.

  Eva was so surprised and excited to see him. How did he find me? Had somebody told him where I work? Eva hadn’t forgotten about him. The truth was that she tried very hard to keep him out of her mind because she truly believed it was for the best. He was here now, though, and she was happy to see him.

  He approached the reception area and said, “Hey, Eva! Didn’t expect to actually see you here. Sorry to barge in like this, I was getting some stuff for my mom, and I remembered you mentioning something about a gallery by the mall. I hope I’m not interrupting.”

  She felt terribly embarrassed for standing him up that day and was having a hard time looking at him in the eye. All the joy was suddenly transformed into awkwardness and tension as she sat there, in her uncomfortable chair, scared to get up and greet him properly. “Hey! Yeah, I work here. No, no, it’s okay. It’s so good to see you. How are you? I’ve been working here since the day we were supposed to meet. I actually got a call the day before to come in for an interview, and they hired me on the spot. That’s why I couldn’t make it to the beach to meet you. I’m so sorry. I wish I had found a way to let you know, but I couldn’t. I promise.”

  He squinted and tilted his head to the side. “It’s okay. I figured something must have come up. I waited for you, though.”

  Eva didn’t know what to say. How embarrassing. He had probably waited hours for her. “God, I cannot tell you how sorry I am. I really did want to go.”

  “You did? Well, that’s a relief to hear. For a minute there, I thought you were glad to get rid of me,” Leo joked.

  “No. Definitely not. I’m so glad you are here, and I got the chance to explain.”

  “It’s all good. How are you anyway? This looks like a nice place to work,” he said, looking around while keeping both hands in his jean pockets.

  “Yeah, it’s alright. I’ve just been really busy. Do you actually want to check out some of the art?” Eva asked, trying to keep the conversation going.

  “Of course. Why? Don’t I look like the kind of guy who would check out art?” At that, he gave her one of those grins that drove her insane. He was so damn good-looking. If only he was her age and was leaving for college with her.

  “Not really,” she laughed, releasing some tension.

  He chortled. “I guess not. You know…” he paused as he ran his fingers through his sleek hair. “You could make the past Saturday up to me if you want.” Leo paused. “Would you want to grab a drink or a coffee with me later?” he said hesitantly.

  Eva was blushing intensely; he was so persistent. He really seemed to like her. How can I say no to that face? It would be basically illegal. There was no point in fighting it. “Erm, sure. I get off at 4pm. You could come to get me then if you want? There’s a coffee shop right around the corner, and we could go there,” she said as she tucked her hair behind her ear. Crap. Danger alert.

  “Cool, sounds like a plan. I will be here to pick you at 4pm sharp.”

  They both smiled at each other for a second before Leo left. Eva had not seen this coming at all. What the hell am I doing? She had already given up on this matter and convinced herself that it wasn’t meant to be. Why is he here now, though? Too many questions filled her mind rapidly. There was no going back now, nevertheless, and nothing could impede her and Leo from having coffee that afternoon.

  CHAPTER 15

  The imprudent Waitress

  Leo arrived at the front door of the gallery at 4:00pm. Better safe than sorry. He waited for a few minutes until Eva finally came out. She looked so different from the other times he had seen her. Although they had already talked in the morning, he couldn’t really tell what she was wearing since she was sitting behind the front desk. Her high heels were right on point, and her make up stood out more than usual. She looked stunning no matter what she wore, but on this occasion, she looked especially striking.

  “Hey, you,” Leo said as he went to greet her with two kisses.

  “Hey, you are right on time.”

  “Of course, I couldn’t risk missing you this time.” He grinned.

  She laughed fretfully. “Why would you miss me? I would have waited for you even if you were late.”

  “Well, That’s good to know. It’s just hard to read you.”

  “I’m sorry, of course, you think that. I’m the one who stood you up. I’m happy you are here now, though,” Eva beamed.

  As soon as they arrived at the café, Leo proceeded to get a two-seat table. He wanted to have as much privacy as possible. The place was cozy and casual. Not what he would have chosen this place for a first date, but he wasn’t complaining. He had imagined something more romantic like Luziano’s, where they could overlook the water and enjoy the soft breeze. This place overlooked a road and shoe store, but at least he was with her.

  There was so much he wanted to ask her, but at the same time, he didn’t know where to start. So, he picked up the conversation by awkwardly saying, “Congrats on going to college. I remember you saying how you weren’t sure about it the first time we met. What changed your mind?”

  “I know. Thanks! It’s crazy. My best friend sent an application for me behind my back, and I got accepted. Can you believe it? I don’t even think I would’ve had the co
urage to send an application myself, but when I read the acceptance letter, I couldn’t contain my happiness.”

  “Wow. That is crazy. Sometimes life catches you by surprise. You think you want something, but without realizing it, life throws you a curveball, and you end up changing your mind about everything. It all happens for a reason, I guess.”

  “Exactly. Is that what happened to you?”

  “Pretty much. I moved here against my will and didn’t want to go to college either. But only a year after, I realized it was for the best. I think if I would’ve stayed back home, I would’ve ended up becoming a bum.”

  “I doubt it. You don’t look like the bum type. But I’m glad you are happy now and that you were able to figure it all out.”

  “Nah, I haven’t, really. I still don’t know anything.”

  “Seriously?”

  “Seriously. How’s your job going? I told you they would hire you.”

  “I know you were right. It’s been really busy… My boss is very demanding, and I don’t have time for much these days. But, it’s been quite the experience, you know? Being my first job and all.”

  Leo didn’t drop his gaze once as he didn’t want to miss the way her lips moved as she pronounced each word. Though she was hard to read, he could spot her innocence and pain from a mile away. Even when she appeared excited, her ache was palpable in the crinkle of her brow and the low-curve of her lips. And her eyes, her eyes gave him reassurance of her good heart. He just couldn’t be sure if she liked him or if she was attracted to him.

  “That’s great. First jobs are always tough, but if you haven’t quit yet, that’s a good sign.”

  Eva laughed. “Well, thank God I’m leaving for school soon; otherwise, I don’t think I would last much longer, to be honest.”

  “That’s okay. I get it.” Leo Smiled. “What will you study in college?”

  “Graphic design.”

  “Sounds interesting. I’m not really into art, as you probably noticed at the gallery, but if you like it, that’s the most important part.”

  “I hope I do. The only thing I like for sure is photography at this point.”

  “Why don’t you study that?” He asked, disconcerted.

  “I don’t think it could be a long-term career that I could make a living from, you know?”

  “Not really, you shouldn’t give it up. If it makes you happy, never give it up.”

  “Okay, okay,” she smirked. “I won’t. We will see what happens, I guess. How’s your job? You like it?”

  “You could say that. I’m only an assistant, and my mentor has me doing all the tedious work for him, which is boring sometimes. But I’m learning, hopefully, soon I will get somewhere.” Hopefully.

  “Well, I’m sure you will. You seem like the kind of person that achieves their goals.”

  “Thank you. That’s nice of you to say. My mentor is just a pain in the butt, though, so that doesn’t make it easier.”

  “Tell me about it,” she chortled. “Mine is a complete lunatic. Some days she doesn’t even say hello. It’s a real hassle to work for that lady.”

  Leo hadn’t seen Eva giggle this much before, and he was enjoying every bit of it. He wanted to get closer to her, maybe hold her hand.

  “Do you still miss Italy?” She asked as she took a sip of her coffee.

  “Yes!” He uttered without hesitation. “I miss the mountains, the simple lifestyle, and my friends. I like it here, and I don’t think I’ll move back, but I do miss it. People are different here in America. It’s hard to know when they mean a smile or when they just smile to be polite.”

  “Aw, I get it. It must be beautiful there. I do hope you stay here—“ Eva bit her lip and sneered, looking regretful of her spoken words.

  She wants me here. That’s good to know. “For sure, I won’t go back now,” Leo said as he finally got the courage to move his chair closer to her.

  “Am I like one of those people who are too American for you?” Eva said, looking a bit embarrassed.

  “I wouldn’t have invited you to coffee if I thought you were, would I?” Leo answered with a teasing expression and a slight grin on his face, waiting to see her reaction.

  “Haha,” She chuckled as she looked down and ran her fingers through her shiny brunette hair. She seemed to do that a lot when she was shy or embarrassed, and he thought it was adorable. They were sitting only a few inches away from each other now, and their chemistry kept intensifying by the second.

  “So, how are you getting over your heartbreak? I remember you saying you were heartbroken?” Leo asked as he leaned in even closer.

  “Oh, yes. Sorry about that day. I was feeling kind of hopeless, but I’m better now. I have moved on, I think. Time definitely heals. It was very hard to understand how somebody can lie to your face day after day without feeling any remorse about it.”

  “No, I can’t imagine. I don’t know what it’s like, but it has happened to a few of my friends from college, and they were devastated.”

  “I opened up to him, and he hurt me a lot. I wish I hadn’t sometimes. It’s part of life, I suppose.”

  “Life is not cruel when you find the right person… I have seen that too.” Leo paused, “I’m really sorry you had to go through that,” he consoled her as he put his hand on top of hers. Eva didn’t seem to flinch or refuse him, so he kept it there for a bit longer. “I’m sure you will find the right person soon enough, maybe sooner than you think,” he grinned without dropping his gaze for a second. He wanted to see her reaction. But all she said was, “I just don’t know.”

  Leo wanted to lean in and kiss her so badly in that moment, but he was so afraid of being rejected. He couldn’t help it. He had to do it. She was right there, looking back at him. The moment was perfect. But right when he was but a few inches away, the waitress came back to their table to ask, “Is there anything else I can get you guys?”

  What the—! Could she interrupt at a worse time?

  “No, that’s it. Thank you, we will get the check now.” Eva said. She looked embarrassed and suddenly pulled away from him. This was when Leo knew that his chance had vanished. Inconsiderate waitress was all he kept thinking.

  He couldn’t help it, but the ambiance got awkward after that. When the waitress came back with the check, he grabbed it quickly, making sure Eva didn’t touch it. He wanted to pay for her, and he wasn’t even going to let her fight him about it.

  “How much was it? she asked.

  “Don’t worry about it. It’s my treat. I basically kidnapped you.”

  “Very funny. You did not, but thank you. I had a really good time.”

  “Me too. Maybe we should do it again sometime soon?”

  “Sure. I’m crazy busy the next couple of days until I get settled in college.” Eva said as she got up from her chair, looking ready to head out.

  What the hell? Leo didn’t want to leave, but the date was over, and he hadn’t anticipated this sudden ending. He got up right after her and asked, “Of course, do you need a ride or something?”

  “It’s okay. I’m going to take an Uber,” she answered distantly, almost as if she was in a rush. Maybe it was his perception, and he was wrong, but he didn’t think he was.

  “Okay, I will wait with you then,” he proposed.

  “Sure.” She said without meeting his gaze. Leo couldn’t figure out what she was thinking. He wanted to keep seeing her every day if possible, so he needed to make a move before it was too late.

  Eva finally met his gaze and said, “I had a really nice time, Leo. I’m very glad we finally got together.” She beamed and continued to give him a soft kiss on the cheek. She smelled so great; she had this vanilla scent that was intoxicatingly pleasant. Leo had been waiting for a “Let’s do it again” or an “I want to see you again,” but she didn’t give him any opening to make another mo
ve.

  “Me too, Eva,” he responded, defeated. Maybe he had been reading the signals all wrong, and she didn’t like him. There was no way she would act like this if she did. As Eva got in the Uber and closed the door, he knew it was over. She hadn’t given him any sign that she wanted to continue seeing him, and he couldn’t keep stalking her. There was nothing else left for him to try.

  As he walked away discouraged, he couldn’t help but think how great the date had gone. They laughed tons, flirted plenty. What happened? Maybe I shouldn’t have tried to kiss her? Maybe it was too soon. I should have never made a move. What an idiot! That was my one and only shot, and I blew it.

  He had no choice but to convince himself that it was over; until suddenly, a voice from a distance called out his name. “Leo, wait!” He turned around abruptly to see Eva running towards him. He couldn’t figure out whether he was dreaming or if she had forgotten something. But she made her way closer and closer until she finally reached him.

  “I’m sorry, I couldn’t leave like that,” she said before she leaned in and kissed him softly on the lips. It was just long enough for him to feel the warmth of her skin and to savor the taste of her delicate lips against his. As she pulled away, he tried to stop her from leaving, but it was too late. Everything happened so fast and abrupt. He still couldn’t catch his breath.

  As he watched her run back to the Uber in shock, he couldn’t wipe the sneer off his face. He waved, feeling like an idiot, well knowing that she couldn’t see him. He then placed his hand in his pocket and realized she had left him the only thing he had been longing for, hope. Or even better, her phone number in a tiny piece of paper.

  CHAPTER 16

  New Horizons

  The following morning Eva woke up feeling exhausted. All the hours she had worked that week had caught up with her, and she did not feel like doing anything other than eat and sleep. Thankfully, she had the day off to recharge her batteries.