'Don't think I don't know what you want from me.'
Her tone was playful but Hecate felt the blush creep up and knew that she knew, even though they were sitting in darkness. All of the words she could have responded with deserted her so she just laughed nervously.
'I think you're flirting with me but being unaccustomed to that, I'm not sure.'
Ada chuckled.
'I sometimes forget that not everyone is used to my manner. But there are times where I try to be different and I end up shutting my mouth because I'm lost at how to approach it.
'I'd rather you didn't. I like the way you are. I'm just not used to it.'
They sat in companionable silence, watching the moon.
'Full moon tonight.'
'Yes.'
'I sometimes think that Agatha is a werewolf. She tends to get particularly bitchy every time it appears.'
Hecate snorted, tried to control it but the laughter started spilling out. It was something that she would normally dismiss as ridiculous but it seemed appropriate for this. She laughed louder than she ever had done before, incurring Ada's delight at such a silly comment having such an effect on her date. Hecate wiped away a tear and wondered how she'd allowed herself to be seduced by such a person. Ada was so sweet but irreverent, qualities that Hecate knew nothing of and she appreciated them like she had never done before. Constance had been right. This woman was good for her.
'And what is it that you think I'm after?'
Ada looked at their feet, a pair of heeled boots and a pair of kitty flats resting side by side on the tiny table. It was most unorthodox to sit in this position for Hecate but Ada had encouraged her to put her feet up and relax. Literally. They had got ice cream and retired to Ada's front garden, with the understanding that it was too forward to go into the house for the first date. Hecate enjoyed staying out late but never had done so in this manner. She'd thought of buttoning up the skirt but decided to be daring and tucked it inbetween her legs instead. She thought it was modest enough and felt tentatively comfortable with it. Ada appreciated the flash of calf it revealed. She hitched up her own skirt, higher than she would normally flash the neighbours with during the day and uncovered part of an illustration on her right thigh. Hecate spotted what looked like a tail and leaned forward to have a better look, fingers itching to touch. She jumped as Ada dropped her skirt back and told her they'd need another date if she wanted to see the rest of the tattoo. Hecate spluttered with laughter and wondered how soon she would agree to another one.
'You decide when.'
'Perhaps next week' suggested Hecate hesitantly.
'Perfect. Do you want to choose the next place?'
'I'm afraid my knowledge of eating out is non-existent. I'm happy for you to choose.'
It was past 11 when they decided to finish their date. Ada insisted on driving Hecate home safely.
'Thank you so much for a wonderful evening' said Hecate stiffly. She was becoming awkward again and privately chastised herself for it. She found it hard to stay relaxed and at times it made her seem standoffish.
'No, thank you. I had a wonderful time. Let me know what day you'd like to meet.'
They parted with promising words and fell asleep with light hearts.