Chapter 4 – a continuation from the previous chapter.

Running was good for Eve. More than the exercise, it helped her to clear her thoughts. And now, she was thinking of Annalise. What she felt for her was deep and emotional. Annalise had been a big part of her life. For many years, she wondered what she had done wrong for Annalise to leave her, and to leave so abruptly. There had been no warning - or maybe she just didn't see the signs. But their bond had been strong. Throughout their "lost years", Eve thought it had disappeared and buried - together with all the memories of Annalise she had tried so hard to forget.

But who was she kidding? All it took was the initial out-of-the-blue phone call from Nate and she felt the bond making itself felt. Eve thought they were just beginning to rediscover themselves. It was clear though, that Annalise appeared to be sometimes terrified of the reconnection. In truth, Eve was too. However, when Annalise had told her she was the most beautiful thing that ever happened to her, it went a long way in helping Eve to heal.

Now, Annalise had made a second trip to New York. Eve figured that it was best to take things slow. She didn't think either of them was prepared to go head-on into a serious, committed relationship. They should just concentrate on having fun and enjoying each other's company.

It was with this thought that Eve jogged back to her apartment, opened her door and called out, "Hi honey, I'm home!". Eve giggled to herself. She knew Annalise wasn't one who liked any saccharine sweet term of endearment. Even when they were together, they were mostly Annie and Eve. She was quite sure Annalise would react to being called 'honey', and she was right.

In the kitchen, Annalise stopped short. Honey? Eve had never used that word on her. Ever. Did Eve think she had someone else in the apartment and forget that it was her that was there? Annalise was indignant. Slowly, she stepped out of the kitchen with one hand on her hip and saw her tall, gorgeous Eve, looking all healthy with a red glow on her cheeks fresh from her run. She looked absolutely stunning even in running gear. Annalise almost forgot to speak. "Hi... it's only me...and I don't recall ever being called your honey…", and she couldn't help but add, "Maybe you were thinking of someone else."

Eve burst out in laughter. "I knew that would freak you out! You should see the look on your face! There's no one else I'm thinking about! Come on, I was just teasing you."

Annalise refused to smile. "I swear, Eve, there'll be pay back!"

Eve by this time had walked up to Annalise. She took both of Annalise's hands in hers and looked into her eyes. Annalise could see Eve's eyes dancing. Softly, Eve said, "You're too serious, Annalise… I'm sorry I annoyed you… I like teasing you, you see. Don't worry, there's no 'honey'". And in a still softer tone, Eve added, "But you know, it is nice coming home to you."

Damn Eve for always saying the right things. Annalise broke into a sad smile. "You're right. It is nice waiting for you to come home to me." Eve pulled her into a hug and in that moment, they were lost in their own thoughts. Thoughts of what it would truly be like if they were living together. Both of them said nothing out loud but just hung on to each other.

Through her thin sportswear, Eve could feel all of Annalise's curves and she loved it. She had always liked hugging Annalise. It was Annalise who finally broke the silence. "Ugh, you're all hot and sweaty!", she said into Eve's shoulder, attempting to push Eve away but Eve held her even tighter. "Isn't that how you like me", Eve asked cheekily and burst into another round of laughter. This time, Annalise joined in.

"By the way, whatever you're cooking? It smells wonderful. I'm going take a shower before we sit for dinner ok?", Eve said still holding onto Annalise before whispering into her ear "Join me?"

Annalise nodded and they headed for the shower for a second time that day.