Listen Pitch

by Vale, Lani Lynn

  Then, once I was at a part that had concrete and I could wash myself off, I waded into the lake, washing the mud off my boots, shorts and lower half of my shirt.

  Once they were clean, I walked back up the boat ramp, took my boots off and emptied the water out of them.

  Once I had them back on, I stripped the shirt from my body and tucked it into the back of my waistband.

  Then I resumed my trek home.

  All the while, I was very much aware of the man’s eyes on me.

  He watched me go and I felt his eyes watching me, gaze boring into my back until I was out of sight.

  Only then did I look over my shoulder.

  ***

  I walked into the restaurant, very much aware that I was well on my way to being over half an hour late.

  I did not want to be there.

  Which was why I was wearing my white tank top that said, Sorry I’m late. I didn’t want to come.

  It seemed fitting and hopefully my blind date would get the message that I was not happy about being here and didn’t want anything to do with him or this situation.

  Unfortunately, I’d do just about anything for Janie.

  Even go out on a date that I didn’t want to go on.

  I pulled the door open and inhaled deeply, relishing in the scent of tacos and spices.

  I loved food.

  I loved food so much that I planned my day around good food.

  For instance, today I got up early because I knew that it was the special day at the gas station—two bacon, egg and cheese taquitos for the price of one. But you had to get there early, because if you didn’t, they’d be all sold out.

  They were that good.

  Someone bumped me from behind and I stumbled.

  It was only the quick thinking of the man who’d done the bumping that prevented me from landing on my face on the floor.

  Once I caught my footing, I turned and smiled at the person behind me in thanks.

  Only the smile immediately slid from my face once I saw who it was.

  The man from the lake.

  The stupid, tall, dark and handsome Greek god of a man who had made me fall in the mud and had stolen my moss.

  The same man who I planned to steal more moss from later on tonight.

  Like right now, I thought.

  I should go now seeing as he was here and if he was here, I knew he wasn’t at home.

  I yanked my arm away and glared.

  “You were the one to walk in front of me,” he held up his hands. “Apparently, you need to learn to pay attention to your surroundings. You nearly bit the dust for a second time today.”

  Fucker.