The Date

31.

We stood close to each other holding hands. I could hear Mom rinsing the dishes before placing them in the dishwasher. I did offer my help even if I didn't really want to let go of Jacob. She had politely declined, stating that chores helped to hold the little humanity left in her. Sometimes I noticed that melancholic shadow cross over her face. But it fades in the blink of the eyes. I have no idea where Dad was. The living room was silent and I didn't dare ask Mom.

Jacob fished his phone from his pocket and peeked at the time. My heart squeezed in my c.h.e.s.t. He caught me frowning. Jacob pulled me against his c.h.e.s.t and kissed my hair. I grabbed the front of his shirt and my eyes rested on the gold bracelet. The R jiggled as my hand smoothed the fabric of his shirt. I can feel his warmth underneath. The solidity of his body. The safety of his embrace.

"Thank you for today," I murmured. We are standing by the dinner table and we can still hear Mom from the kitchen. There were no doors separating the two rooms, she could easily see us. And right now, I didn't really care.

"Re," he called with a choked voice. His tone was heavy with emotion. I looked up in a panic. Stretched my hand and barely touching his face with my index. He had shaved and the musk aroma of his aftershave melted with his own smell. There was a hint of fur and wood underneath this intricate c.o.c.ktail. It made me light-headed. Drunk on being so close to him.

"What's the matter? You have been tensed since you've arrived," a slow crooked smile spread over his lips. He looked away scratching his head. I was addicted to that smile.

"Really? Isn't it obvious with all this," we both laughed. Mom poked her head through the kitchen door. Jacob turned to her and straightened up.

"I'm leaving soon," he said before Mom could say anything. I pursed my lips and reluctantly pushed away from him. Mom nodded at him. Jacob nervously shifted like he wanted to say something but then gave up. I shot Mom an inquisitive look. She just shrugged at me.

"Can I say goodbye to her on the porch?" Jacob fidgeted. Mom narrowed her gaze at us both. Then peeked over our shoulders towards the living. I guess she was looking for Dad. When she didn't see him, she grinned.

"Five minutes," she announced. I giggled and threw my arms around her shoulders.

"Thanks, Mom," she gently pushed me back. I sprung around and dragged Jacob by the arm and pulled him to the front door. I gave one last look at Mom who was leaning against the wall with her arms crossed over her c.h.e.s.t. She had a radiant smile on. She mouthed "Go on, quick." I smiled and walked out into the chilly night. Jacob was silent behind me. I turned around and leaned into him on tiptoes. But he caught me by the shoulders. His face was solemn. I blinked at this sudden change of mood.

"What's going on?" I was a little puzzled. Well, not a little. He denied me a kiss. He sighed a long deep one. That wasn't good. My heart picked up. "You're scaring me," I whispered.

"I'm leaving, Re," I knew that. But his face said something else.