Idolatry

Win sighed and hot colour filled her face. It was so embarrassing. “It’s just that you’re up here” she said holding her free hand above her head “and I’m down here” she continued lowering her hand to table level. “You’re gorgeous and you date models. I’m nothing like that.”

“I think you’re gorgeous” he said with a smile.

Heat washed over Win and she closed her eyes.

 “I’m just a man” he said, “nothing more, nothing less. I have flaws just like everyone else.”

“I’m yet to see them” she said opening her eyes but without looking at him.

“Win” he said prompting her to look up.

She lifted her head and met his gaze. “I don’t want you to be afraid of me. I don’t know what you’re thinking but I’m as human as you are.”

 She didn’t respond because she didn’t really believe it. He’d been up on the pedestal she placed him on too long.

“I want to prove it to you” he said.

She gave him a wary look.

“Touch me” he said.

“I can’t” she said.

“Yes you can” he said. “I’m just skin and bone.”

Win took a deep breath.

“Please?” he said.

“Where?” she asked, trying to buy some time.  She wasn’t sure she could do this. Her heart was already pounding so hard her chest hurt.

“Anywhere” he said. “Just reach out and touch me.”

Holding her breath, after a moment Win lifted her hand.

“Go ahead” he coaxed when she paused.

Moving hesitantly she reached towards him. With the lightest stroke she touched his chest. She could feel his warm skin beneath his shirt. Before she could moved away Cole flattened her hand over his heart and placed his hand over it, holding it there.

“Feel that?” he said as his heart hammered against her hand. “I’m definitely human.”

Win gave him a worried look and then looked away.

Cole was still holding her hand against his chest. “Do you believe me now?”

“Maybe” she admitted but she wasn’t sure she did.

He smiled and lowering her hand but still holding it he leaned towards her. He stopped short of making contact however. Looking into her eyes, inches from his own he said “kiss me Win.”