Dates, but Not Dating
The neon lights of the pool hall cast wild lights that danced over the hood of Jason's Jeep. Before Kelsi could reach for the door, Jason caught her hand and pulled her back.
"Hey, wait a second, you," Jason said, leaning over the console.
"What?" Kelsi asked, even though she guessed from his expression what he was up to.
Jason reached over to caress her cheek, a sneaky smile crossing his face. "I just want a little kiss before we go in. I know you get a bit shy with everyone around." He leaned closed and gently brushed his lips over hers until she responded with eagerness.
"I'm sorry, babe," she murmured, breaking away to catch her breath, "I love kissing you, but the PDA still makes me uncomfortable."
"It's okay, Kels. Stick with me long enough and you'll get over it," Jason replied with a wink and hopped out.
Kelsi followed, thinking hard about his words as she took his hand again. Sticking with him for a long time sounded nice, but what about her return to school when this blissful summer was over? Her thoughts were interrupted by a firm squeeze on her hand and other quick kiss on her cheek that made a shy smile crack her thoughtful expression.
Jason pushed open the heavy door of the pool hall, the usual warm, beery air washing over them as he led Kelsi inside. The rhythmic clack of billiard balls punctuated the laughter and chatter of the patrons, creating a lively, if somewhat chaotic, atmosphere. They drifted in together, hand in hand as they always were these days. Spotting their friends gathered around a table at the back, they exchanged waves and greetings, the warmth of camaraderie instantly filling the space. Jason and Luke introduced Kelsi and Alisha to Dylan and Chelsea, all exchanging casual conversation about work and school to break the ice.
"Alright," Luke said, a wide grin spreading across his face as he hung his coat over a stool and pushed up his sleeves, "whose ass am I kickin' first?"
"We'll see about that," Dylan retorted, a playful glint in his eye. "We've got a pitcher coming, who wants a beer?"
"One for me, how about you, darlin'?" Luke answered, turning towards Alisha who echoed his answer.
"Oh me too, please," Kelsi said, her voice a little breathless as Jason stepped up beside her at the cue rack. "Just so you know, I'm really bad at pool," she added, her cheeks flushing slightly. "You probably don't want me on your team." She pulled two cues from the wall and handed one to Jason.
He took it with a slow grin that made her stomach flip. "Don't worry, I'll help you."
They split into teams, the clack of balls and good-natured trash talk filling the air. Alisha, with her long blonde hair and ripped jeans, leaned over the table like a seasoned pro, her shots precise and powerful. Kelsi, on the other hand, felt clumsy and awkward. Her first shot went wide, the white ball bouncing harmlessly off the rail. At her next turn, Jason looped an arm around her waist before she could lean over the table.
"Hang on, Kels," he said softly, "can I give you a few pointers?"
She nodded, her gaze drawn to his warm brown eyes. The scent of his body wash mingled with a hint engine exhaust that always stuck with him, an aroma that always made Kelsi feel safe and cozy in his arms. He adjusted her stance, his fingers lingering on her hip longer than necessary. Then, he covered her hand with his own, sending a shiver down her spine.
"Relax your fingers, babe," he whispered, his breath warm against her ear. "Keep your grip soft and controlled, just like you're playing the piano."
The sound of his voice in her ear was music to Kelsi's soul. Her near perfect hearing picked up every note of his affection towards her, making her heart flutter and her body feel weak at the same time.
"How am I supposed to do this with you turning me on, Jason?" she breathed, her voice barely audible.
Sorry," he said, loosening his hold slightly.
She leaned closer, her body brushing against his. "I didn't say stop," she whispered, just loud enough to bring a smile to his lips.
He held her gaze for a beat, his eyes filled with a heat that mirrored her own. Then, he gave her a small smile and stepped back, his hand lingering on her waist for a moment before he let go.
As the night wore on, Kelsi's game improved dramatically. With each successful shot, her confidence grew, and her laughter rang out, clear and bright. Jason stayed close, offering encouragement and the occasional touch – a hand on her shoulder, a brush of his fingers against her back.
Luke, watching them from across the table, leaned over and nudged Alisha with his elbow. "Someone's attached, huh?" he said with a knowing grin.
"You gonna find yourself attached tonight, mister?" she teased with a nudge back at Luke.
He grinned and shook his head. "Well ma'am, you did wear them ripped jeans and I can never resist tearing those off of ya!"
"Hey, Perry!" Dylan called across the table, "thought you were planning to kick some ass tonight, dude. Take your shot already!"
The rest of the evening passed with a few more beers and a lot more laughs, each couple whispering plans for later that night in each other's ears.
Eventually the final ball dropped with a satisfying thunk, echoing through the mostly deserted pool hall. A collective groan rose from Chelsea, Alisha and Luke as Kelsi had sank the eight ball, winning the game. She laughed, a genuine, joyful sound that seemed to lift the smoky haze hanging in the air.
"Beginner's luck!" Alisha teased.
Kelsi tilted her head and glanced playfully at Jason. "Nah," she drawled, leaning against her cue stick with a lazy grin. "I had a good teacher." She couldn't deny the thrill of victory, even if it was mostly thanks to Jason's subtle guidance and well-placed "accidental" bumps against her while she lined up her shots.
Jason and Kelsi gathered their things, the goodbyes to Alisha, Luke, Dylan and Chelsea punctuated by promises to meet up again soon. As they stepped out into the dry, desert night air, Kelsi kept her coat off, basking in the warmth of the nights of the New Mexico summer. She had been planning to head straight home, but Jason, with that mischievous glint in his eyes, clearly had other plans.
"Mind if we take a little detour?" he asked, steering her towards his Jeep, the open top suggesting adventure and freedom.
"A detour?" she echoed, trying to sound hesitant, but failing miserably. The truth was, she couldn't think of anything she'd rather do, not wanting the night to end.
He chuckled, a soft rumble that sent a pleasant tremor through her. "Don't worry, I'm not kidnapping you. Just thought you might like to see something special."
He paused by the Jeep, his hand lightly entwining with hers. With a playful tug, he pulled her closer, his smile widening as she stumbled against him. Kelsi laughed, a little breathless, her cheeks flushed from the beer and the sudden closeness.
"Whoa there, Gearhead," she teased, trying to regain her balance. "Don't go getting any ideas."
"Who, me?" he replied, feigning innocence, his eyes sparkling with amusement. Before she could respond, he leaned in, his free hand gently cupping her cheek, and he kissed her. It was a quick, playful kiss at first, a teasing touch of his lips against hers. But then his other arm snaked around her waist, pulling her closer, and the kiss deepened. Kelsi's laughter died in her throat, replaced by a soft sigh.
When he finally pulled back, a slow grin spread across his face. "Definitely worth the wait," he murmured, his thumb gently stroking her cheek.
Kelsi, a little dazed, leaned into his touch. "The wait?" she echoed, her voice slightly husky.
"All night," he confessed, his eyes twinkling. "Every time you leaned over the pool table, every time you laughed at one of my jokes..." He trailed off, his gaze dropping to her lips again. "I've been wanting to kiss you like that."
The city lights twinkled in the distance as Jason navigated the Jeep out of the parking lot and off the main road, following a dusty trail that wound its way up a nearby hill. It wasn't a long drive, but it was enough to escape the city's glow and find a pocket of darkness where the stars shone with an almost unreal brilliance.
Kelsi leaned back to gaze through the open roof, captivated by the spectacle above. Millions of stars glittered overhead, The Milky Way stretched across the heavens like a luminous river, and the constellations, usually faint and distant in the city's light pollution, seemed close enough to touch. A shooting star streaked across the horizon, leaving a fiery trail in its wake.
"This is incredible," she breathed, feeling a sense of wonder wash over her. It was as if the universe itself was putting on a show just for them.
"Yeah," Jason agreed, his voice hushed with reverence. "I love driving up this way, just to think sometimes."
They fell into a comfortable silence, the only sounds the steady roar of the engine and the wind rushing through their hair. Kelsi stole glances at Jason's profile, illuminated by the dim lights on the dashboard. His strong jawline, the way his hair fell across his forehead, the intensity in his eyes as he drove… It made a familiar warmth bloom in her chest.
After a while, with a glance up at the stars, Jason turned the Jeep around and headed back towards the city. He finally pulled up in front of Kelsi's house, the engine idling softly.
"I had a really great time tonight, Kels," he said, his voice sincere.
"Me too, Jason," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
He leaned in and kissed her, a gentle, lingering kiss that tasted of starlight and freedom. When he pulled away, Kelsi felt a wave of longing, a desire for more. She wasn't ready for the night to end, not like this.
"Wait here," she said impulsively, practically flying out of the Jeep, her mind racing. When she flew through the door, a voice greeted her in surprise.
"Hey K, you're back late," her dad said.
She passed her parents in the living room, bathed in the glow of the television, sipping coffee and chatting quietly.
"Hey Mom, hey Dad," she said breathlessly, "I'm going out again..." her voice trailing off as she headed for the stairs.
Her parents exchanged a surprised look, their eyebrows shooting up in unison.
"Going out? Where? You just got in," her mother called, her voice laced with concern as Kelsi proceeded quickly up to her room.
When she came back down the stairs she had a bag in hand, hastily packed with some essentials and who knew what else she managed to throw in there. "With Jason," she replied, grabbing her sneakers from the hallway closet. "I, uh... I'm going to his place."
Her father chuckled. "His place, huh? Seems like you're spending a lot of time with this new boyfriend of yours."
Kelsi bristled. "He's not my boyfriend…" she retorted, a little too defensively. "We're just... seeing each other."
Her mother smiled knowingly. "Of course, dear," she said, her eyes twinkling. "Whatever you say."
Kelsi blushed, feeling flustered. She mumbled a quick goodnight and dashed back out to the Jeep, a grin plastered across her face.
Jason raised an eyebrow, amusement dancing in his eyes. "Everything okay?" he asked, a smirk playing on his lips.
"Yeah," she said, climbing back into the Jeep. "Just a minor parental interrogation."
He laughed, and shoved the Jeep into drive. "I bet they're as curious as I am about you rushing to get back to my place."
Kelsi felt her cheeks flush again. "Maybe," she murmured, fiddling with the strap on her bag as he pulled away from the curb.
The Jeep hummed along the quiet streets, the houses of Kelsi's neighbourhood blurring into a stream of moonlit windows and darkened porches. Jason, one hand on the wheel, the other resting casually on the gearshift, glanced over at Kelsi. She was gazing out at the moonlit landscape, a soft smile on her lips.
"So," he began, "Couldn't bear to be away from me for the night?" He teased, a grin tugging at the corner of his mouth.
Kelsi laughed, a light, airy sound that echoed in the stillness of the night. "Don't get ahead of yourself, Gearhead," she retorted playfully.
"Well if I was making a guess," he began, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "I'd say it has something to do with me, my place," he paused, his voice dropping to a husky rumble, "and my comfy bed."
Kelsi's breath caught in her throat. The suggestive note in his voice sent a shiver down her spine. "And what makes you think I'd be interested in that?" she asked, her voice a teasing melody that made Jason's grip tighten on the steering wheel.
His other hand reached out to gently stroke her thigh. "Call it a hunch," he murmured, his thumb tracing with a suggestive pressure as his hand moved further up her leg. "A hunch that you're just as ready as I am."
Kelsi's heart pounded in her chest, her earlier nervousness replaced by a wave of anticipation. She knew he was right. She was well past warmed up and getting close to viciously desperate. And as the Jeep rumbled onto his street, she realized she couldn't wait to find out.
The quiet click of the front door closing behind them echoed in the stillness of Jason's house. He gestured towards the staircase with a mischievous grin. "Shall we?"
Kelsi nodded, her heart pounding with anticipation. As they ascended the stairs, Jason's hand laced tightly with hers, sending a jolt of electricity through her. She couldn't help but smile at the way he slowed their pace, their bodies close enough to feel the heat radiating between them.
"So," he began, his voice reverberating through the narrow stairwell, "fair warning, my room's a bit of a disaster zone. Didn't exactly expect company tonight."
Kelsi laughed, a soft, melodic sound that echoed in the hall. "Oh no," she teased, "what ever will I do?"
"Well," he continued, a hint of sheepishness in his voice, "the bed's not made…"
"No?" she gasped dramatically, feigning horror. "How horrible! I definitely didn't plan on making a mess of your bed anyways."
He chuckled, shaking his head. "You're enjoying this, aren't you?"
"Just a little," she admitted, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
Jason pushed open the door to his room, a slightly apologetic expression on his face. "As promised," he announced, gesturing to the slightly chaotic scene within.
Kelsi stepped inside, taking in the sight of his unmade bed, his work clothes not entirely in the hamper, and a towel hanging on the doorknob of his closet. But her gaze quickly settled on Jason, who was watching her with a mixture of amusement and apprehension.
Kelsi moved closer, her fingers gently tracing the buttons of his shirt.
"In my defence," he began, holding up his hands in mock surrender, "I kind of rushed out of here to pick you up."
Kelsi's fingers moved deftly through his buttons. "Mhmm," she murmured. Her hands slid down his chest, untucking his t-shirt from his dark jeans.
"I promise, I'm hardly ever messy like this, I really try to keep the house…" He reached out, his hand gently cupping her cheek. "You're not listening to a word I'm saying are you," he chuckled with a wide grin.
Kelsi's heart fluttered in her chest. She leaned into his touch, her fingers finding their way to his belt. "Baby, what makes you think I care if you have socks on the floor when you're built like this and make love to me like it's going out of style?" she replied, her voice confident and alluring.
With a soft groan, he pulled her closer, his lips finding hers in a deep, passionate kiss. He grabbed the hem of her shirt and eased it up over her head. "Kelsi, have I told you that you are the perfect mix of polite and naughty when you talk like that?"
"You can tell me all about it after, please and thank you," she replied with a devious smile.
Sunlight danced through the blinds, painting lazy patterns on Jason's bedroom wall. He blinked awake, a smile tugging at his lips as he felt the warmth of Kelsi's body curled against his. Last night had been unexpected, spontaneous, and utterly perfect.
He pressed a soft kiss to her shoulder, inhaling the scent of her skin. "Morning, sleepyhead," he whispered.
She mumbled into his chest, her voice thick with sleep. "Five more minutes..."
Chuckling, he eased out of bed. "Alright, you sleep in a little longer, baby. I'm gonna get started on the Jeep before it gets too hot."
He slipped out of bed, pulled on a t-shirt and cargo shorts, then quietly made his way downstairs. His house was his sanctuary, but with his job, it was a constant battle against grease and grime. Especially the Jeep, which was now coated in a thick layer of dust from their desert drive last night and a smattering of rusty dust and grease on the interior from his week at work. Cleaning it was definitely on the agenda today, and the day was already warming up.
A few minutes later, Kelsi stretched and yawned, the lingering warmth of Jason's body still imprinted on the sheets. She smiled, remembering the passion of the night before. Pulling on a pair of denim shorts and a tank top, she headed downstairs.
Jason was in the kitchen, filling the kettle. "Thought you were sleeping in a bit longer, babe," he teased, his eyes lingering on her bare legs.
"Well good morning to you too," she replied, a blush warming her cheeks. "I can finish the coffee while you start on the Jeep."
"Deal," he said, giving her a quick kiss on the forehead before heading for the door.
"I'll bring yours out when it's ready," she promised with a smile. She watched him go, her heart skipping a beat at the sight of his broad shoulders. He slipped out the front door and she went to the cupboard to pull down two mugs. Leaning against the counter, she let her thoughts drift, lost in the memory of the night before. Her surprise visit, the heated kisses that led to a night of passion that carried on past midnight. The kettle's whistle jolted her back to reality, and she poured herself a cup of tea. When the coffee maker finished dripping, she poured up a cup for Jason.
With their drinks in hand, she stepped out onto the porch. The sun beat down on the driveway, where Jason was diligently scrubbing the Jeep. He'd shed his T-shirt, and the sight of his muscled chest caught her off guard. Her heart hammered in her chest as water cascaded over the dusty Jeep, splashing back and landing on his toned arms and strong hands
Kelsi's breath hitched. Damn, that is all mine, she thought.
Setting the mugs on the porch steps, she sauntered over, her hips swaying subtly, just enough to catch his attention.
"Looks like someone's got their work cut out for them. How about I make you some breakfast while you get that done?" she purred, trailing a finger down his damp arm.
He chuckled, his gaze locking with hers. "That sounds awesome."
"Pancakes?" she suggested, a playful smile curving her lips.
"Perfect."
As she turned to go back inside, a mischievous glint sparked in Jason's eyes. He aimed the hose and unleashed a jet of cold water, hitting her squarely in the back of the calves.
Kelsi shrieked, a mix of surprise and delight, whirling around to see Jason grinning, the hose locked in his hand.
"Oh, you are so going to get it!" she exclaimed. Knowing she'd never wrestle the hose from him, she grabbed a soapy sponge from the nearby bucket and hurled it at him. It landed with a satisfying splat on his chest.
"You're gonna pay for that," he laughed as he started toward her.
"Oh yeah?" she challenged, a playful smile curving her lips.
Laughter filled the air as they engaged in a playful battle, water spraying, soap suds flying. The water fight escalated into a frantic chase around the Jeep of quick and wild footsteps that slipped and slid on the wet concrete.
Kelsi, agile and quick, dodged Jason's attempts to catch her, her laughter echoing through the quiet neighbourhood.
Finally, he managed to encircle her waist with his strong arms. Capturing her in a tight embrace, he lifted her off her feet, pinning her back against the cool metal of the Jeep. Their laughter subsided, replaced by the rapid rhythm of their breaths.
"Got you," Jason laughed, his voice husky with a mix of exertion and desire. His deep brown eyes locked with hers, a playful challenge simmering beneath the surface. "You're trouble," he murmured. With a swift movement, he leaned in, his lips brushing against hers in a tantalizing kiss. The cool water dripping down their bodies only intensified the heat building between them. He deepened the kiss, his hands moving to cup her face, his touch both gentle and possessive. The world narrowed to the feel of her body pressed against his, the taste of her on his tongue, her scent of coconut and sunshine.
"And you're soaked," he added, his smile teasing.
"You have no idea," she whispered in his ear.
Then his lips were on hers again. The Jeep and the chores, faded into insignificance. In that moment, there was only Jason and Kelsi.
Jason reluctantly released Kelsi, his gaze lingering on her flushed face and damp hair. "I'd kiss you all day, but you said something about pancakes didn't you?" he said with a tender smile.
"Yeah I did," she said, catching her breath from his vigorous kiss. "I'll go get cleaned up and have those ready for you in no time. She darted inside, a giggle escaping her lips. The warmth of their encounter still lingered, leaving a tingle in her fingertips and a flutter in her stomach. She quickly changed into a fresh pair of shorts and a loose t-shirt, then set about making their breakfast.
As the batter sizzled in the frying pan, she hummed a happy tune, slicing fresh strawberries and setting the table. By the time Jason walked in, his cargo shorts already dry from the desert heat, the kitchen was filled with the sweet aroma of pancakes and more coffee.
"Smells amazing in here, and I don't just mean the pancakes," he said, wrapping his arms around her waist from behind. "Thank you for this."
She leaned back into his embrace, savouring the warmth of his body and the steady beat of his heart against her back. "Anything for you, Gearhead."
They ate at the kitchen table, sunlight streaming in through the window, their conversation flowing easily between bites of fluffy pancakes and sweet strawberries.
"Wow, these have got to be the best pancakes I've ever had, Kels," Jason remarked. "You'll have to teach me your trick, how you get them so light and fluffy."
"I could, or maybe I won't," she said with a wink, "I might just keep the secret to myself so that they stay my special treat to you."
Jason smiled at the intimacy of the moment, the shared laughter, the stolen glances—it all felt so natural, so right.
As they were clearing the dishes, Kelsi's phone rang, shattering the peaceful morning they'd created. She glanced at the screen and sighed. "It's my mom. I better get this," Kelsi said, answering the call.
"Hi Mom," she said, a hint of apprehension in her voice.
"Kelsi, honey! Just wanted to check that you're okay, you left in quite a hurry yesterday," her mother's cheerful voice filled her ear.
"I'm good, Mom. Just finishing up breakfast," she paused, glancing at Jason, "with Jason."
"Oh that sounds nice. Listen, I was wondering if you were home for dinner tonight and if Jason would like to come along. We'd love to finally meet this young man you've been seeing."
Jason raised an eyebrow and mouthed, "You okay?"
She nodded and turned back to her call. "Um, sure Mom, that sounds great. What time?"
"How about 6:00?"
Kelsi put the phone to her chest and turned back to Jason.
"Are you up for dinner at my parent's house tonight?"
A flicker of nervousness crossed his face. Kelsi's heart pounded in her chest, but he quickly gave her an encouraging nod.
She smiled and spoke into the phone again, "Sounds great, Mom, we'll see you tonight!"
After hanging up, Kelsi turned to Jason with a nervous smile. "So, are you up for meeting my parents?"
Jason's face lit up. "I am." He reached across the table and squeezed her hand. "I'm glad I finally get to make a good impression, my last visit wasn't so polite."
Kelsi's heart swelled with affection. Looking at Jason, she couldn't imagine her parents not liking him as much as she did.
"I guess they are anxious to meet you after they caught me sneaking you out at 4 AM." She blushed, remembering the awkward encounter.
He chuckled. "Well, I'm ready to meet them properly, if you think they're up for it."
The anticipation of the evening mingled with the lingering warmth of their morning, creating a heady mix of excitement and happiness. The day was just beginning, and already it felt like the start of something wonderful.
