Learning To Trust Again

Pleased she had got him beyond one word answers, Rebecca pushed for more. She stuck to the subject of work though as he seemed comfortable talking about that. ‘So what is your strong suit then? At work I mean’

Shrugging Jake replied ‘rescues probably, getting people out of tricky situations.’

‘So like what you did for me the other night?’

‘More or less, and anything requiring ropes and climbing.’

Looking at him, her admiration increasing the more she found out, she asked ‘so you abseil down buildings and off cliffs and bridges.’

‘Sometimes’ he agreed ‘but it all depends on what’s happening, what the job is. That’s really what I like about my work, every day is different.’

‘It certainly sounds exciting.’ she said wistfully.

‘It can be, but not as much as you’d think’ he explained ‘there is a lot of sitting around waiting for something to do too.’

‘I guess every job has its downside’ she said, her expression thoughtful as she looked away.

Jake said ‘so what about you? You said you’re a nurse, which part of the hospital do you work in?’

Turning her head, Rebecca found him watching her. This time she knew it wasn’t mere politeness that had prompted his question. Pleased, she said ‘I work in the emergency department.’

Nodding, he sounded sympathetic as he said ‘that must be tough sometimes.’

‘Yes, it can be’ she agreed.

Leaving the restaurant a short time later they were again silent as they walked along. Rebecca was thoughtful as she processed what she’s learnt about the man by her side. She felt sad as she considered that in a few minutes she’d say good bye to him for the last time. There was no reason for him to see her anymore unless he was interested in something other than protecting her and she had seen no real evidence of that. She’d really like to get to know him, but she wasn’t sure she had the nerve to suggest it. He seemed so stern and unapproachable most of the time, not to mention she was certain now it was just a sense of obligation that had kept him coming back and she didn’t really want to put him to trouble of having to say so.

So as they reached her apartment ten minutes later, Rebecca unlocked her door and readied herself to say good bye. But as she turned to face him Jake shocked the life out of her. Without a word and before she could speak, he leaned down and kissed her. It was not a passionate kiss, and he didn’t touch her except with his mouth, but it was sweet and Rebecca willed it to go on forever. However, before she knew what was happening, just as quickly as it had started, Jake ended the kiss and stood there looking at her. As she watched, too shocked to speak straight away, a strange expression crossed his face. He almost looked like he was angry. But with her or himself? She had no idea. Still trying to figure it out, Rebecca was just at the point of asking him, when without saying a word, he turned and almost ran down the stairs.