Habitude, page 2
Jonathan leads them outside when the tour was finished. He opens the passenger door of his Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 for her. She smiles and thanks him, happy he is being such a gentleman. Jonathan starts the car and heads to Tollero’s.
“Jackie told me you and Tom met at Kansen Corp. What is it that you do there?”
“Well, I started there four years ago as a salesman. I worked my way up to department manager within my first year. I made general manager approximately two years ago, and I’m hoping to advance to CEO. There are a few higher-ups that will be retiring which could make it an attainable goal. It’s my five-year plan.” He says very matter-of-factly.
“That’s a hell of a five-year plan.” Faith says, impressed with how sure of himself he is and his level of drive.
“I aim high.”
“I can see that.”
“So, you’re a teacher? What do you teach?”
“I teach kindergarten at the moment, but I recently heard of a first grade teacher who will be leaving at the end of this school year, so I’ve been tossing around the idea of switching grades.”
“Do you have a five-year plan?” It comes out of his mouth, and he isn’t quite sure why, but it’s too late to take it back now. He adds, “Not that you have to have one.” That may have made it worse, he thinks.
Faith laughs a bit, realizing for the first time that he’s nervous. “Not for my career. There’s only so high you can climb as a teacher. I don’t care to be a principal or superintendent, and that isn’t why I became a teacher. I guess I’d say my five-year plan is to get married and have kids.”
“That’s a good five-year plan.”
“Do you want to have kids someday?” She glances at him hopefully, but also wonders if the question might have been asked a little prematurely.
“Someday, absolutely. I’d like to get married as well. I simply have to find the right person.”
“True, yet not simple at all. Marrying the wrong person can derail your five-year plan pretty quickly.”
“Yeah, definitely. Also, my job is pretty demanding. I work long hours. That will not be changing when I’m promoted either. I need someone who can handle that.”
“I think you need someone that has their own stuff to do. Someone who isn’t sitting at home waiting for you to come home.”
“Exactly. I’ve dated other women, some pretty seriously, but they all seemed to be kind of clingy. Needy even.”
Faith looks down at her hands. Jonathan takes notice and continues, “I’m sorry, Faith. I shouldn’t be bringing up exes. That isn’t polite, especially on a first date.”
“It’s OK. It’s pretty easy to do. Especially when talking about something like that.”
“Thank you for being so understanding.”
“You’re welcome.” She smiles reassuringly.
“So, how many kids do you want?” He asks, wanting to change the subject.
“I’m not sure. At least two, maybe three, maybe more. Did you grow up in a big family?”
Jonathan glances at his hands wrapped around the steering wheel as he makes a left hand turn into the parking lot of Tollero’s. He knew this was going to come up at some point, but it never gets easier to address with someone new. “No. It was just me and my parents until they died when I was eight. Then it was me and my aunt Suz.”
“I’m so sorry to hear that. It must have been such an extremely difficult thing to go through as a child.” She tries to hide the regret she’s feeling for making him bring up such an emotional subject this early in their date.
“Thank you. It definitely was. Do you have a big family?”
“Only my parents and younger sister, Hope.”
“Is that why you want a big family? Because yours wasn’t really very large?”
“I think so. I also believe it has something to do with being a teacher. There are usually about twenty students in my class every year. I’m used to quite a few. It would be weird to only have one or two running around the house.”
“That makes sense. Are you close with your family?”
“Yeah, we have dinner together every Sunday night.”
Jonathan pulls into a parking spot and puts his car in park. Not really wanting the intimacy of the conversation to end, he reluctantly unbuckles and opens his door. Faith reaches for her door handle, but Jonathan is already there, pulling the door open for her. She beams at him.
“You’re such a gentleman. Thank you.”
His heart swells. “You’re very welcome.”
The hostess seats them. They each glance at the menu as she brings them glasses of water. The waitress comes to the table shortly after and asks if they’re ready to order drinks. Jonathan orders a beer, and Faith asks for a glass of Riesling. When the waitress comes back with their drinks they both order their meals.
Jonathan wants to continue the conversation about their future goals, but isn’t quite sure how to segue back into it. Faith looks at him and smiles, then takes a sip of her wine.
“Have you ever been here before?” She asks him.
“No, this is my first time. I’ve lived here my whole life, but my aunt didn’t take me out much. As an adult, I usually eat at home or at one of the bar and grills. Sometimes I’ll go into Sol Port just up the road and get some amazing sea food from this little diner on the coast. I’ll have to take you some time.”
“I’d like that.”
“What about you? Have you been here before?”
“Yeah, my parents actually own Love’s Café right across the street. Most people don’t know this, but there’s a secret society among restaurant and bar owners. It’s kind of crazy. I think I know the diner you’re talking about, too. I haven’t been there, but I’ve met the owners.”
“Love’s Café? I’ve been there quite a few times. It was a great place to go in high school. Delicious food and easy on the wallet.”
“I’m surprised I haven’t seen you there before. I’ve worked there every summer since I turned fourteen. In high school I’d work every day after school. The food is so cheap because they used child labor. Shh, don’t tell anyone.” She giggles and Jonathan joins in.
“We may have seen each other before and simply don’t remember. I’m sure you’ve seen a lot of faces between the café and students’ parents.”
“That is true. It’s such a small town, though. I honestly thought I knew everyone.”
“So did I. I’m so glad Tom invited me out last night. I’m really happy I’ve met you.”
“I am too. This has been really nice. I haven’t dated anyone in a while. I’ve been so busy with finishing school, only to have to go to school every day for work.”
Jonathan chuckles. “You must have a heart of gold to want to do that as a profession.”
Faith touches her chest, acting as if she was just caught hiding something. She whispers, “Is it shining through?”
Jonathan laughs again. “You’re pretty funny. I don’t remember the last time I laughed this much.”
“Thanks. Maybe I was a stand-up comedian in a former life.”
“It’s quite possible.”
The waitress brings out their food and double checks their drinks, motioning towards Jonathan’s beer. He shakes his head yes. They each pick up their forks and begin eating. The waitress brings Jonathan another beer as she walks away he asks Faith, “Would you like to try mine?”
“Sure.”
He loads the fork with a little bit of everything on his plate and feeds it to her. Intently watching the fork go into her mouth, her lips close around it. He gently pulls it out, all remnants of the food gone.
She chews, swallows, and then says, “That is delicious.”
“Right!”
“Do you want to try mine?”
“You know I do.”
Faith does the same thing, loading her fork with a little bit of everything.
“We’re definitely going to have to come back here sometime. I had heard their food was good, but this is exceptional.”
Once they finish their meals, the waitress brings the check. Jonathan pays while Faith excuses herself and goes into the bathroom. After washing her hands she looks into the mirror, her chestnut brown eyes looking back at her. She fixes the little smudge of eye liner that somehow always gets out of place, runs her fingers through her hair a bit, and walks back to the table.
Jonathan watches as she approaches, standing and saying, “I’d like to go for a walk in the park with you. If you’re feeling up to it, of course.”
It wasn’t a question or a request, but he gave her an option none-the-less. She smiles, “I would like that very much.”
They leave the car in the restaurant’s parking lot and walked down the road to the park. The sun is setting over the river. Reds, oranges, and pinks fill the sky, reflecting on the rippling water below.
They walk down the cobblestone path along the river, stopping on the bridge leading to the other side. Faith breathes in deeply, taking the scene in. “This is so beautiful.”
“It really is. I couldn’t have asked for a better night with you. This sunset is incredible, but you are even more beautiful.”
“Thank you.” She feels her face getting warmer knowing her cheeks probably match the sunset.
Jonathan turns to look at her, taking in all the gentle features of her face. She looks back at him, feeling a little self-conscious.
In an attempt to feel slightly more comfortable with his gaze locked on her, she, barely audibly says “Hi.”
His voice low and raspy, he replies, “Hi.”
Focusing solely on her lips, he sees a faint smile appear. He brings his hand right under her chin and gently lifts her face to his. His other hand rests carefully on the small of her back as their lips touch. When he feels her lips part slightly his tongue enters her mouth, and faith’s tongue finds his. Her breath becoming more rapid. He pulls her closer into him before pulling back for a moment, watching her and allowing her breathing to return to normal again.
She smiles at him, her head still swimming. He smiles back, proud of himself. It was a magical first kiss. Whatever anxiety he may have had has now gone entirely.
He takes her hand in his and they walk on, watching the colors of the sunset slowly fade. Jonathan motions to a bench just up ahead. “Would you care to sit with me?”
“That’s a great idea.”
After sitting there for quite a while, talking about a myriad of subjects from politics to food, they suddenly realize how much time has passed. The sky has grown dark. The only light is coming from the moon shining bright in the sky.
“Where has the time gone?” Faith glances at her phone. “I hadn’t even realized it had gotten so late.”
“What time did your phone say?” Jonathan looks at the phone in Faith’s hand.
“It’s nearly two in the morning.” She chuckles unbelievably.
“Wow. I knew we were sitting here talking for a while, but had no idea it was that long!”
They both stand. Jonathan reaches for Faith’s hand, locking eyes with her. “I’ve had an amazing time with you, Faith. I’d really love to see you again.”
“I would like that very much. I’ve had an incredible time with you, too. Both tonight and last night. There’s something between us. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but I can feel it.” She wonders if maybe she had been a bit too forward, but lets it hang in the air without saying more.
“I feel it, too. This has been the most authentic first date I’ve been on.”
Happy to have her feelings reciprocated, relief washes over her as Jonathan leans in and kisses Faith quickly before they stand and walk back hand-in-hand, to the car still parked in Tollero’s parking lot.
On the drive back to Faith’s house, the roads are practically empty, making Luna Shores seem like a ghost town. They’re both a bit quieter, knowing their night will end once they get to Faith’s, but there’s still some uncertainty hanging in the air. Should she invite him in? Should he give her a quick kiss and excuse himself to make sure it’s not awkward?
Neither of them having the answers to their questions, Faith nervously says, “I really like you, Jonathan. Tonight has been amazing and I want to get to know you better.”
“I want to get to know you better, too. Like you said, I really feel like there could be something here.”
“I’m not ready for us to sleep together yet, though.” Faith looks down at her hands, afraid he may have been expecting an invite into her bedroom. Not because of anything he has done, simply because of past experiences. She wants to make her thoughts and feelings clear now so there is no miscommunication. She tucks her hair behind her ear.
Relieved by her forwardness, Jonathan glances at her and says, “I agree, after-all we just met last night.”
“Thank you for being so understanding. It’s really refreshing, and I truly appreciate it.”
“Of course, Faith. I don’t ever want to pressure you or make you feel uncomfortable. I’d like for this to become something very special. I definitely think the potential is there.”
“I think so too. So far, it seems that way.” Faith smiles, her cheeks getting warm again. Jonathan reaches over taking her hand. He brings it to his lips, gently kissing her fingers then resting her hand in his on the shifter.
Jonathan parks in front of Faith’s house and says, “I’ll walk you to the door.”
He gets out of the car and opens Faith’s door for her again. With the moon lighting their way they walk up her walkway to the porch. Faith has her keys in hand when Jonathan turns to her in front of her door. He leans in to kiss her. Faith meets him half-way. Jonathan places his hands on the small of her back and pulls her body against his. The moment Faith starts feeling her attraction grow, Jonathan pulls back. With her eyes still closed, she takes a deep breath. Jonathan kisses her forehead.
“Thank you for a truly incredible night, Faith.”
“Thank you, Jonathan. Really, it was more than amazing.”
“It definitely has been.”
“Please let me know that you got home safe.”
“I’m not far from here, but I’ll text you when I get there.”
“Thank you.”
Jonathan leans in for another quick kiss before Faith turns to unlock her door. He walks back to his car, wishing the date didn’t have to end.
As Faith starts to go into her house, she turns to see if Jonathan may be looking back. Her eyes are met by his glancing over his shoulder, trying to grab one last glance of her before she disappears into her living room.
Faith smiles and giggles to herself. She has butterflies in her stomach. Jonathan smiles back, all while trying to burn this memory into his brain.
The drive home was nothing but a fog to him. All Jonathan knew was that he made it, and he couldn’t wait to keep his word to Faith and let her know he was home.
He put his car in park and sent the text to her before even shutting off the engine. She replied just as he was walking in the door. He thanked her and told her good-night.
Faith had already washed and moisturized her face, then climbed into bed. With her head on the pillow, she closes her eyes in an attempt to fall sleep, but still feeling far too invigorated. After giving sleep a chance for as long as she can stand, she sits up, reaches for the light on her nightstand, and grabs her book.
Less than a mile away, Jonathan is also a bit wired, and knowing he wouldn’t be able to fall asleep he grabs a beer from his fridge, sits on his couch and turns on a movie.
Chapter 4
Plenitude
Noun; the quality or state of being full, completeness
In the previous week, they had managed to meet up for coffee one night and text many times throughout the day when they had the chance. Jonathan really appreciated Faith being so forward about her boundaries last weekend. It was refreshing to not have to guess what her expectations were for the end of their night, and it opened up the conversation so that they could be sure they were both on the same page.
Jonathan pulls up to Faith’s house at eight on Saturday morning. This time, much less anxious. He walks up to her door and knocks. Faith opens it moments later, looking just as beautiful as she did for their first date. Today, she has her hair pulled back in a high pony tail, and she’s wearing yoga pants, and a tank top, with a zip up sweatshirt zipped three quarters of the way up.
“You’re ready for hiking, I see.”
“Just about. I still have to put my shoes on. Come on in.”
She moves to the side, still holding the screen door open. Jonathan steps over the threshold and into her living room once again. He peeks into the kitchen to see the flowers he’d gotten her last weekend still sitting in the center of her table. He smiles to himself and notices they’re starting to look like they’re coming to the end of their life.
Faith grabs her shoes from the closet behind the front door and sits down on the sofa to put them on. Jonathan sits next to her looking around the living room a bit more than he had a chance to do the first time he’d picked her up.
“You have a really nice place. I like it.” He sees a handful of framed photos on the fireplace mantle. One is of her and Jackie on the beach in bikinis, another he can only assume is a professionally taken picture of her parents, sister, and her.
“Thank you. I only bought it a few months ago. I haven’t been able to do much to it besides unpack.”
“I wouldn’t have guessed you’ve lived here that short of a time.”
“Yeah, I didn’t want to rent, but had to save for a while in order to buy. Luckily, the market was in my favor.”
“Luckily,” he repeats turning to look at her. Seeing her shoes are tied and she’s standing he asks, “Are we ready to go?”
