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Alex releasesback slowly I look down and take a few deep breaths to steadyfor h ently lifts my chin, his eyes flooded with a mixture of desire and concern

“Are you okay, Katherine?” he asks

I sh softly, and I lean against hi arms wrapped around me We sit in silence for a few moments

Finally, I lift my head off of his shoulder He brushes a loose strand of hair away froo home, need some time to think

“Thank you for a lovely day, Alex I need to go hoh”

“Of course I’ve really enjoyed our tiether,” he says softly “Let me hail a cab for you”

We leave Holland Park, my arm linked with his This is nice I haven’t felt this way in a long time Ever, actually

We ee out into thehiives me a quick peck on my lips

“Goodbye, Alex,” I say, while getting into the cab

He squeezes my hand “See you Monday, Katherine Cheers”

I arrive back toin my mind I can’t believe I just h and sit down on the bed This is not what I had planned The three glasses ofoff because suddenly I feel like I’vemistake

Heather’s words flashed through my mind He looks like trouble, if you knohat I mean Trouble is what I don’t need, that’s for sure What I do need is a long, hot, relaxing bath

I turn the water on in the bathtub It feels good to be ho, but it’s already become my sanctuary It’s not a lot of space, especially compared to American standards, but it’s mine My own spot in this busy, hectic city

I slip my loafers off, slide out ofthe sweater to ne still clinging to the fabric

Sprinkling soerly slide into the stea s up in front of s The steame