I cant put into words what’s different about him. What’s changed. My eyes search his face, his stare. His mouth when he curls the corners of his lips in an all knowingly smirk. Flirtatious. Cute. His hand as it lays on the beautifully decorated table, face up. His palm showing, beckoning. What about the other hand? Is he holding something? Probably his cellphone.

Is he trying to throw me off? Has he sensed a curiosity that surpasses one typically exhibited on a first date. Can he tell I’m desperate to find out what’s different about him, and what has me on the edge?

I smile to soften my demeanor, my face.

I shift in my seat, lean forward invitingly and decide to laugh at something he said.

I want him to look at my breasts. I need him distracted. Unaware.

‘So, you said you booked a hotel stay for us. That was quite the surprise. I don’t remember you as the romantic type. You’ve changed.’