She changed the position of the accent pillows on the sofa for the third time. She fiddled with the volume of the compact disc player once again. Mood music was fine, but she did not want it to be suggestive. Yes, she’d been happy to hear from him. Who was she kidding? The sound of his voice had sent her into the clouds. After almost a month they would be together. Still a small voice urged caution. Lanessa would not let emotion rule her the way it did Yasmin. The doorbell rang. Lanessa steadied herself and walked to the door despite the urge to run. When she opened it, she was composed. “Good evening,” she said. “Hi.” Alex smiled nervously. He stood watching her as though for some sign. “Come on in. I won’t bite, for now.” Lanessa tried to lighten the awkward moment. She noticed the flowers held but did not comment on them. “Right.” Alex came in. Lanessa closed and locked the door. She led the way to the living. There was another awkward moment when both tried to judge where they would sit on the sofa.
