As the limo door opens, you are bombarded with flashes of light. Tom helps you out of the car and takes your arm as he graces the camera's with a warm smile. Immediately overwhelmed, you try your best to focus on Tom and not look too anxious in front of the press. This is normal for him, you think to yourself. A normal day for me is like, sitting in a cafe doing homework… but this?! Wow.
Tom has to say a few words to various interviewers, but throughout the whole process he never lets go of your hand. Not once.
"I'd like to introduce you to some friends of mine," he says when you finally reach the lobby. You nod in agreement and follow him through the crowd. After shaking several hands, its time to find your seats.
The entire theater cheers and applauds as the lights dim. Tom squeezes your hand without looking at you. Is he nervous? you wonder. You decide to squeeze back, just in case he needs the reassurance.
The film is wonderful. And how could it not be with Tom in it?
After facing the mass of social formalities following the premiere, you're not completely disappointed to leave. It was a phenomenal experience, but your feet are killing you inside your heels, and your head is pounding from the crowd. Following the stream of people heading outside, you are surprised when Tom pulls on your arm and motions with his head for you to follow him. He takes you through a door marked "employees only" and when you're a decent way down the hall Tom finally explains. "I had my car brought around the back so that I could drive you home myself and we could avoid any unnecessary attention."
"Oh," you say, surprised. "You didn't have to do that."
"I wanted to."
Soon you were sailing down the highway in his black sports car; undetected by the world.
"So what did you think?" he asks.
"That was incredible. I mean, you were incredible."
"You're too kind."
"You're too modest."
"Am I?" he smiles mischievously.
Before you know it you're back at your apartment and Tom is walking you to the door. Neither of you are ready to part.
"Thank you for coming," he says sincerely. "It really does mean a lot to me. And I hope you find an occasion to wear that dress again because… wow."
You brush off his comment, embarrassed. "Thank you again, for tonight- for the dress- for everything."
"It's nothing," he mutters almost inaudibly. And with that, he takes your shoulders and kisses your forehead lightly.
"I am curious though," you say. "Why me? You could have taken anyone else. Why would you take me?"
"Why not?" he responded enigmatically.
"Tom, you asked me for a reason. What was it?"
He looks at the ground, lips pursed, unsure of what to say.
"Tell me," you prompt, and with a sudden burst of confidence, Tom's hand finds your neck as he pulls you into a kiss.
Did you catch the 'Thor' dialogue reference at the end there? Just a bit of fun ;)
To be continued...
