Hook-Up

He was staring at her, she could feel his gaze as she danced. Every time she glanced his way, he met her eyes. There was no shame in that look, he did not mind being caught watching her. She was always the first to look away. Quickly at first, blushing because he was handsome. As the night drew on, however, she found herself searching for him.

She slipped off the dance floor, and he was there, right in front of her. She froze and looked into his eyes. They stayed perfectly still for several minutes, until he broke the spell.

“Would you like a drink?” His voice deep enough to cut through the music still blaring away, he held out a bottle of cider, just opened.

“Sure, thanks.” She took it and as he guided her to the nearest table, she continued, “You’ve been staring at me all night.”

“Yes.”

“Why?”

“Because you are a very beautiful woman; and you didn’t seem to mind.”

“Thank you. No, not after a bit anyway.” She took a sip. “But, don’t you know that it’s rude to stare?”

“I’m sorry. Shall I go, then?” He started to rise, but she waved him down.

“Apology accepted.”

“Why didn’t you mind?” He caught her gaze again, held it as he spoke. “You kept looking back to me.”

“Well, you’re a very attractive man.”

“And?” he pressed, leaning towards her.

“And… it’s nice to feel wanted.” She tried to sound flippant, but it came out breathy, so she took another swig of cider.

“It is, isn’t it? Do you want me?” He brushed the back of her hand with fingertips.

“Yes. I mean… well, okay, yes.” She fumbled and dropped her eyes.

“Look at me.” His voice still low; his fingertips left her hand and lifted her chin. “Why are you embarrassed?”

“I don’t know you. I don’t even know your name.” She looked into his eyes, trying to stay calm.

“Nor I, you.” He slid his fingertips across her cheek and jaw to the back of her neck. “But I know I want to kiss you.”

He leaned toward her, and she toward him, their lips met, his hand a gentle pressure on her neck, one of her own, slipping up to touch his chest. When he pulled away, she gasped for breath, her heart pounding and her body throbbing. She resisted the urge to thank him.

“Are you ready to go home?” he asked.

“With you?” she answered without even thinking.

“Is that what you want?” He held out a hand to her.

“Yes, very much so.” She took his hand and he led her out of the club.