Loss and Longing

Seeing his solemn expression, Stevie was worried that she had just ruined things and hurried to say “sorry, you don’t have to tell me” 

“I don’t know why” he said after a second, “not exactly. Because you reminded me of someone I guess.”

That shocked Stevie. She didn’t like the thought that she may be a replacement for someone else. And Grant must have sensed her concern for his eyes flicked up to meet hers. He said “I know that sounds bad. It’s not, but I’m not sure I can explain. Not yet. Just know that while a resemblance may have sparked my interest, it was you and only you, that held it, okay? The other was just a momentary thing.” 

Stevie was still frowning. She didn’t know what to say. It concerned her that maybe, albeit unintentionally, he was using her as a substitute. She sat up. “I think I should go.”

Grant sat up too and grasped her hand, “Stevie please, don’t go. I didn’t mean to upset you. I was trying to be honest and I wish I could explain, but I can’t.”

Stevie looked at him and then taking a deep breath asked him what she needed to know, “I understand you can’t talk about it, I really do, but you said you were being honest, okay so be honest about this. Is it possible I am just a substitute for someone else?”  And as his eyes widened she said “think about it before you answer. I don’t mean I think you are doing it intentionally, but is it possible the attraction you feel to me is because of what you once felt for the person I reminded you of?”

He touched her face with his free hand, his other still holding hers, “absolutely not” he said. “I never felt anything like that, for the person you reminded me of. We didn’t have that type of relationship. What I feel for you, is all about you, okay?”

Relieved, Stevie smiled. “Okay” she said “thank you.”

“No problem” he said with a smile and then his expression going sombre, he added “I will tell you about it one day.”

“Okay” she said and leaning towards him, she kissed him. Stevie felt him sigh against her mouth before he wrapped his arms around her and lowered her upper body back down onto the rug. 

A few minutes later she dragged her mouth away and as his lips moved to her neck she said “I really do have to go though.” 

“Soon” Grant muttered against her skin.

Stevie grinned and looking at her watch she said “okay, soon.”

Grant moved back and grinned down at her before meeting her mouth with his once more.