"I am kicking around an idea of doing my own consulting and maybe work on my own product design."
"That sounds pretty risky, but possibly rewarding as well."
"Risky doesn't always mean bad." Luke replied.
"As long as you don't violate any non-compete clauses, it sounds like something you should definitely look into."
"I am thinking the next step for me is to really go independent."
"This is exciting. I wish you the best." When Jessica said it, the genuine sincerity of her voice made her more appealing.
"How did your company get the chance to sublease that space, anyway?"
"Well Grafix leases several floors, and we were planning to utilize that space, but have changed our minds. So I've been authorized to sublease it and earn a little bit of revenue."
"Okay, so how do I earn a discount on that rent?" Lucas responded wiggling his eyebrows and leering.
"We may have ways." She said with a smirk.
Dinner was fun. It was light-hearted and carefree. Luke had never met anyone that he was able to talk to so easily. He was always a bit of a loner, and thought of himself as inept in social interactions. But with Jessica, he felt uninhibited and maybe a little reckless. The conversation made him want her so much more if that was possible. She had this spontaneity that was so refreshing. It was a wave that washed over him, and it was at times cool and refreshing, warm and inviting, and then scalding hot. At this time, there was no other place in the world he would rather be. The sexual longing he was feeling, the pull of her magnetism was hypnotic. He could almost feel himself staring at her face, and he knew he was, but he just couldn't resist.
Dinner came to an end. Although she tried to pay for dinner, he stopped her.
"I asked you out. Therefore I consider it an honor." Luke glanced at the check, winced and added, "Of course, our next date will be McDonalds."
She chuckled and said "Cheapskate. I want lobster and caviar next time."
"Next time?" Luke asked, before he could hear her response the restaurant owner came over.
Luke had gotten to know the man and his wife over the years. Lucas was able to chat with the owner about his family and exchange a couple jokes. The man made sure to mention how beautiful Jessica was.
Luke walked her to her car. It was a sleek European sports sedan.
"Nice car." He commented.
"I like it. Its fun to drive."
"Can I call you again? I had a great time tonight. I can't remember laughing as much."
"Please call me. I had a wonderful evening. I would like to do it again." Jessica whispered.
It was the first time she sounded vulnerable. This was the litmus test part of the night. When each one was feeling the other one out. Trying to keep their cards close, just show enough to either bluff your way through, or up the ante and go all in.
She tiptoed and placed her lips on his cheek for a quick peck.
"Wait, my other cheek feels cheated" he said pointing to the other side of his face.
She smiled and tiptoed again and leaned in to peck his other cheek, when he turned his head and touched his lips to hers.
She seemed so shy that he definitely kept his tongue in his mouth. But he wanted her to lay in bed tonight and think about this kiss. The way he thought about her other kiss. He used his hands to cup her face, to hold her gently. He slid his lips across hers. Slowly, teasingly, but barely close enough to brush her lips. He leaned in pressing his lips a little more firmly, deepening the kiss, slightly sucking on her bottom lip. Gently nursing her lips, savouring her, rubbing his thumbs of her cheeks, and caressing the back of her head. She was actually whimpering. She was making a little noise in the back of her throat, getting louder and she started to press herself to him. He kissed her like he was making love to her face alone. She was almost purring. It was so sweet. And then it was over, and she was leaning back against her car. And she was trying to catch her breath. She reached up to touch her lips.
Lucas was concerned. "I didn't hurt you, did I?"
She was silent for a while.
Then in the quietest voice. "No, not at all. Thank you. I had better get going."
She spun and got into her car and drove away.
She left him standing there, confused and hard, and feeling sheepish.
It was late when he got home. He called her.
Before she could say anything, he spoke.