CHAPTER 3
The two colleagues spent the next few hours going from bar to bar; talking, laughing, drinking. They talked about everything from work, to food, to sport, about their childhoods, what they do at weekends- everything. Though they knew each other well in a working environment, they were both surprised how much they had in common outside of it.
Though Stella had noticed previously Don's bright blue eyes – who couldn't when they were so striking – she hadn't noticed the intensity behind them as she spoke. Don seemed to hang on her every word and Stella saw that through those piercing blue eyes.
Those beautiful blue eyes stared confusedly at Stella.
"Earth to Stella," Don joked. "I asked if you wanted another drink but on second thoughts it might be home time for you" he finished.
"Oh, sorry – I just got lost in your eyes." Don blushed at Stella's words. It wasn't like he'd never heard that before, but it just felt so nice to hear it from Stella. He let a small smile erupt on his face. "Thanks" was all he could spit out.
It was then that the inevitable happened. Stella moved towards Don, placing one hand on top of his. Slowly, and wordlessly, she closed the gap between them and gently placed her lips on his. Don didn't back away, instead he placed his spare hand around Stella's waist and pulled her closer. The kiss became more passionate, sensual but stayed slow and gentle. Both Stella and Don's hearts raced as they enjoyed their moment together. It was like they had forgotten they were in a crowded New York Bar.
Stella moved gently away from Don. The pair were both smiling and had not broken eye contact. "Wow" was all Don had to say – Stella had now rendered him speechless on two occasions!
"Now is a good time to go home" Stella said as she started to stand up.
"OK" Don mustered as they began battling through the crowds.
Don hailed a cab and they both climbed in the back. Stella knew the drill by now – Flack was very protective of his colleagues and would never let the girls - or guys for that matter – ride a cab on their own. He would always go out of his way to drop them off first before going home himself. Tonight was going to be no different. They continued talking openly during the journey home. The conversation flowed naturally and still Stella was lost in Don's eyes. Stella considered inviting Flack up to her apartment but didn't want to ruin a good night.
"I had a great night Don. I'm so glad you saw me on the sidewalk." Stella said as the cab pulled up outside her apartment.
"Me too, I'm glad I saw you too" he said as he closed the cab door. He waited a few minutes, watching Stella to make sure she got safely into her apartment before asking the driver to continue on to his apartment.
Such was Flack's distraction by what had happened earlier in the night, he headed straight to bed, abstaining from the snack which he'd normally consume after a night out. He fell quietly and easily into a calm sleep.