The Game Changer The Final Score - By L.M. Trio Page 0,33

a designer suit.

They look to be in a deep conversation and she continues to smile at him as he stands in front of her, moving closer. He then, tucks a piece of hair that has fallen over her eye behind her ear. I feel as if I’m run over by a bulldozer when I finally realize what is going down. My heart pounds out of my chest as I watch him softly brush the side of her face with his hand, she leans her head into his hand and smiles. The world seems to go into slow motion as he places his hand softly under her chin, tilting her face upward towards his…

***

(Jesse)

I’m relieved when the gallery finally clears out. It was a great night, but all of the anxiety and excitement left me exhausted. As I wait for Frank to lock up the office, I sit down on the mahogany stool and replay the evening in my mind. Frank walks over and hands me a glass of wine. We toast to a wonderful evening.

“Jesse, there’s something I would like to talk to you about.”

I have an idea as to what he might say. I like Frank. We’ve known each other for a while now and have grown closer the last couple of weeks. I feel it’s time for us to take the next step in our relationship. I know that Frank wants more than a friendship and up until now, I wasn’t sure if I was ready.

“Jesse,” he says, smiling down at me. “Most importantly, did I tell you how beautiful you look tonight?”

“I think you did.” I smile.

“Well it’s definitely worth repeating.” He laughs, causing me to blush. “I just want you to know that I enjoy the time we spend together. I’m sure by now that you know my interest in you goes deeper than friends. I guess, I’m wondering if maybe you feel the same way.”

“Well, I have to say, I was hoping you didn’t treat all of your employees this way,” I joke. “But to answer your question, yes I have feelings for you as well. I enjoy the time I spend with you.”

He smiles, brushing a piece of hair from my face. He tilts my head towards his and for the first time, he kisses my lips. Not a casual kiss, but a long, soft, parting of the lips kiss. His tongue brushes against mine and we move them together briefly. It’s the first time in a long time that I actually enjoy kissing someone. He plants soft kisses on my lips and pulls me towards him, asking if I’m ready to leave.

I get the impression that he would like to continue the evening elsewhere, but I begin to have second thoughts about moving too quickly. I want to be sure that I’m ready for a relationship with Frank and that it’s not because I’m swept up in the moment due to this memorable night. I make up an excuse that Deanna is waiting for me at my apartment and that we haven’t had a chance to spend time together since she’s been in town. Putting my mind at ease, Frank is understanding and walks me home. Worried that he may feel put off by my sudden departure, I invite him to Mikey’s game tomorrow.

After changing into my pajamas, I join Mya on the couch. She’s waiting on the details of the remainder of my evening with Frank. I fill her in and give her all of the reasons of why we should be together.

“Who are you trying to convince, me or you?” Mya asks.

“I don’t get it, what do you mean?” I ask defensively.

“Well, Jess, you don’t have to sell him to me. I like Frank. You’re the one he’s interested in, how do you feel about him?” she asks.

***

(Mikey)

As De and I drive home from the gallery, we discuss the night. I can’t help feeling guilty for leaving Luke at home, knowing it was a special night for her and he would have liked to have been a part of it.

“I feel bad, too, but I think it was the right thing to do,” De says.

“I know. Besides, you’re gonna tell her tomorrow that Luke is back, right?”

“Yes. I’m nervous. We made plans to grab something to eat before your game. I’ll talk to her then.”

I open the door for her as she steps into our condo. I’m finding it hard to peel my eyes away as she bends over in her