A Taste of Spring

Spring walked through the exit. She thought about what Raheem said regarding investing in someone, and she thought about her love life, or the lack thereof. Not that she wasn't ready to invest. Spring wanted to invest in the right guy, one who she imagined falling for completely, head over heels. She didn't want to be pressured into a relationship that didn't meet all her needs--mental, emotional, physical, social, and probably a few she didn't even know about. She was tired of being pressured according to what others felt she needed. Hell, her entire life she was basically pressed to do what everyone else thought was best for her; she internally grimaced against the thought of it.

The look on her face must have reflected some of her thoughts. "What?" Raheem asked as he stepped in pace with her.

Spring had to shift gears to return her attention to the topic at hand. "How does she feel about your setup?"

"Well, I try to keep it uncomplicated by separating that part of my life from my public life. That's why hiring an escort for events such as weddings was more practical than inviting her. If the lines are blurred, there will be confusion."

"Blurred huh?" she said, trying to keep her tone as neutral as possible as they passed through another set of doors that were open to the outside. She wished she could have met Dezmond without all the complications.

Raheem motioned for her to sit on the bench just to their right. "You know, I wouldn't mind driving you home but I know I will have to drive a few of my inebriated family members home. I didn't hire you to be my designated codriver."

Spring sat first then Raheem rested beside her. It didn't escape her how much of a gentleman Raheem was. "Honestly, it's fine. I wouldn't be able to accept your offer anyway."

Raheem stood as lights from a vehicle illuminated them as it drove around the curved drive. Spring pushed to her feet and moved toward the curb.

"Well, beauty," Raheem said, "I enjoyed our night together. You made me the most envied man here, aside from the groom." He leaned forward and kissed her on the cheek then opened the taxi door.

collar then smoothing her hand over his chest. She smiled then ducked

thing isn't too bad,

----------

A WEEK AFTER

Date Three

The dessert menu she was looking at hadn't changed in the last twelve minutes. But she was so distracted by the way her date stared at

sighed then looked up at him again. "Are

looked and seemed normal enough within the first ten minutes of meeting him, acted creepy ever since. His blue

a toothy grin. "Like dinner,

Spring swallowed. "Alright."

ride it out. That's what she told herself as she forced a smile. Spring placed

now?" Spring

"It's not necessary."

"Oh, ok."

the menu again, to place a barrier between her and the client when something

to scare you," the