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Griff smiles a lot When I try to scoot past hih so he has to touch my hip or my arm as I move by There’s a tiny thrill each time it happens

And there’s laughter

I’ve had so little to laugh about for so long—because, let’s face it, prison isn’t a happy place—that my face actually starts to hurt But Griff is funny and self-deprecating, and I’ht wears on and the beers keep co

Another couple saunters over and asks if ant to play doubles, and Griff and I agree They’re not local, just visiting soht of fun away frohter andinto Griff and his hand comes around my waist as atch our opponent take a shot on the pool table I feel protected Despite the fact it’s not an overly intimate touch, I feel desired

I can feel it radiate froh o for it

Around eleven, the other couple leaves and Griff and I finish our last beer

“Listen,” he says, taking“I’ve had way too much alcohol to drive you home I’ll pay for a cab for you”

My head tilts in question “What will you do?”

“I live within walking distance Just a few blocks from here”

“H at the pool table I’ because this has all felt new and ain in my life

“Or…” Griff says, which causeson him My pulse speeds up “You could come to my place I’ll make us some coffee”

“I’m not ready to have sex with you,” I blurt out, but then ie “Oh, my God… I have no clue why I just said that”