Chapter 6 – Let’s Get Married

“Let’s get married,” I heard Steffan said after we broke up what felt like an eternal kiss.

“Because of the kiss?” I asked in confusion. I must admit it was a moment, but I don’t think it’s enough to spend the rest of our lives together. It’s something that felt right at that moment but might feel wrong in the next.  

“Forget I asked. I’m sure you’d want someone more capable than a blind, homeless man,” he said deprecatingly.

“Hey, stop that. On the contrary, I think you’ll have more options after your operation. You can have a refresher course, work at an entry-level in a big corporation, and meet lots of gorgeous colleagues. From there you can take your pick, one girl for each day of the week. So don’t limit yourself now, the possibilities are endless tomorrow,” I painted a picture for his future but he doesn’t look like he’s listening at all.

“Don’t ruin our date by spouting non-sense,” he said with furrowed eyebrows.

I wanted to laugh so hard at his reaction. He can’t be serious right now. Of all the homeless people I’ve encountered, this is the only man who has a temper and is not afraid to throw tantrums. I didn’t know we’re on a date; I should have dressed better.

“I think it’s time to go home,” I packed up our picnic basket trying to ignore him.

It only took a quick fifteen-minute walk from the park to my apartment and my ‘date’ was sulking the whole time, so we chose to walk in silence.

“You’re the only woman who treated me like a human being. I’ve already imagined us getting married, having kids, growing old together, keeping each other’s secrets. I’m sorry if I’m too upfront with my intentions,” he said calmly as soon as we entered the apartment.

“It’s fine, really. I just don’t know how to deal with you when you’re throwing tantrums like a child,” I replied honestly which proven to be the wrong choice of words because before I knew it, I’m pressed on the couch with both my hands over my head and a heavy body on top of me. My mind knew I had to stop him but my body is responding beyond my control, feeling his every breath on my skin. Welcoming every nibble and occasional bites with suppressed moans.

“Steffan, I’m not going anywhere,” I said weakly when I felt him calmed down leaving my neck and chest full of his marks.  

“You think a child can do that?” he asked in a rugged voice just to prove a point before getting off of me. “I need a shower” he admitted and I nodded while catching my breath.

That was –unexpected. Maybe he’s not a child in that aspect.

I was preparing for dinner when I found him dressed up in the living room.

“Going out?” I asked.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have done that,” the sincerity in his voice made me forget about all his indiscretions that day.

“I understand,” I said softly. “But it cannot happen again, Steffan.”

I didn’t think I owe him an explanation but his reaction told me he took it as a rejection so I felt the need to explain.  

“I had this friend before,” I started. “We’ve been friends for a while before we started dating. One time, after dinner and a few drinks, he became too intimate and touchy and a bit forceful.” I could tell he was listening intently based on his tightened jaw so I put my hand over his.

“Nothing bad happened. He stopped after I pushed him away and I ended things between us after that. He moved overseas while I went on with my life. But I’ve never in been in another relationship after that,” I admitted.

“I think if we’re going to live under the same roof, it’s important to set boundaries, and this is one of mine. I promise I won’t call you a child anymore,” I said to lighten the mood but his expression didn’t change one bit. He still exudes a murderous aura and it was scary but comforting at the same time.

We stayed in that position with the silence between us until I heard him took a deep breath.

“I have a friend that I need to meet weekly. He usually picks me up from the park but I think he will worry if I’m not there. Can you book me a car?” he suddenly requested and I complied.

I watched as his hired car left but the silence inside the apartment suddenly feels haunting. Fortunately, it didn’t stay long because my phone was ringing when I came back.

“Hey b*tch, you owe me dinner and drinks. Why didn’t you tell me you got fired?” Veronica’s voice sounded as soon as I accepted the call.

“Okay let’s meet,” maybe a lively company would lift my mood right now.

When I reached our meet-up place, she greeted me with a bone-crushing hug.

“Tell me all the nasty details and don’t try to hide anything from me,” Veronica ordered.

After I told her what happened in the last two days, as expected, she was speechless.

“I bet he’s huge that’s why you didn’t object at all,” she said after sipping her cocktail.

“Of all the things I told you, that’s all you can comment about? Forget about the police station or the bank cards. Are you really my friend?” I asked in annoyance.

“Of course, I’m your friend. I know you can deal with the police and what not. But what your ex did traumatized you so much so that’s my main concern. Maybe Steffan can help you overcome that,” she said with concern.

              We ended up debating on how Steffan can help me with my current situation whether in my financial situation or in my intimacy issues and we didn’t notice how much alcohol bottles we’re emptying.

              “It just feels wrong to accept his proposal. He’s at his most vulnerable and I don’t want to take advantage of that,” I reasoned out.

              “But you don’t see him as a threat that’s why you’re letting your guard down with him. Can you find a normal guy that you can be comfortable with?” Veronica asked with slurred words.

              I don’t want to continue the topic anymore and I was relieved to see my phone ringing from an unknown number. I don’t care if it’s a scammer. I would gladly entertain a scammer right now than to continue defending myself from a champion debater.

              “Are you asleep now?” hearing Steffan’s masculine voice immediately churned the insides of my stomach. I haven’t paid attention before, but his voice on the phone, the way he asked questions, it’s like a tickle from a light feather and it’s doing something inside me.

              Or maybe it’s just the alcohol.