It makes sense because Addy and I have been keeping our relationship on the downlow. We don’t want our co-workers to know, and as a result, act completely professional when we’re at the House of Steele. She smiles gently.
“Busy,” she says. “But absolutely amazing. Things are flowing seamlessly.”
I nod.
“They are because you’ve been an amazing creative director, honey. People really respect your opinion, and they see how you lead by example, and want to work for you as a result. But you saw your parents on Tuesday, too, right?”
She blushes and nods.
“Thank you, Marcus, and yes, I did. Actually, I only saw my mom because my dad was too busy. We had dinner since we missed out on our last lunch plans.”
I laugh. That was my fault. Addy was supposed to meet her mom the weekend we first got together, but I wouldn’t let her out of bed. I literally begged the curvy girl to cancel so that I could continue enjoying her lushness, and she relented after I put my mouth on her pussy and wouldn’t let up.
“How was dinner?” I ask, smiling.
“It was great. Pam asked me a thousand questions about you,” she adds, rolling her eyes. “I told her that I’m dating someone, but I didn’t mention that you’re my boss. She’d probably totally freak out.”
I grin.
“It’s probably for the best. But you know, I’d love to meet your mom someday soon.”
Addy smiles at me, so happy.
“You will. Pam’s out and about a lot because she adores NYC. I swear, my mom’s going to be one of those old people who goes to Broadway shows two to three times a week.”
I chuckle because her family sounds cute. We continue to chat until the food comes and it’s great. I love this about the curvy girl: her intelligence, curiosity and overall lust for being alive are just as important as her incredible willingness to explore and give herself to me in bed. In fact, she’s the perfect package, and I know it. I’m just disappointed I didn’t get divorced sooner, so that I could be with this woman.
“Tell me a funny story from your childhood,” Addy giggles, eyes bright, as we wait for the check.
I laugh.
“How about this: one time, I was walking down the street with my mom. I refused to wear a belt for some reason, and my jeans were saggy and huge, per the style of the day, that my pants fell down right in front of a busy grocery store. But instead of being embarrassed, my mom and I decided to embrace it. We did a silly dance together as I pulled my pants back up, and pretended it was all part of the routine. Of course, I still refused to wear a belt after.”
“That sounds like a sweet memory with your mom,” Addy giggles.
“It is. We have a lot of those, and I’m sure she’ll be happy to tell you all about my childhood when you meet her.”
My girlfriend brightens.
“You think? Down in Florida?”
I nod.
“Definitely yes. You’ll like Susan and Bob. They’re still happily married after forty years, and I think at first, they were disappointed by the fact that I was getting a divorce. But when I told them Marissa didn’t want kids, that all changed. Then, they were all for the divorce.”
Addy gasps as her cheeks blush.
“Your ex didn’t want kids?”
I shake my head slowly, my fingers drumming the table top a bit.
“No, because it would have ruined her figure. Also, Marissa wasn’t exactly maternal, let’s be honest. I can’t imagine her nurturing a child, playing kiddie games, or doing a dance with her teenage son in a grocery parking lot.”
Addy giggles, flushing, and she reaches out to squeeze my fingers.
“Well, that’s in the past now,” she murmurs. “I’m sure you’d be a wonderful father, Marcus.”
I look up swiftly, and my heart contracts as I take in this lovely woman. This is the time to talk with her about her thoughts on pregnancy and children, but I don’t want to push it. We haven’t been dating that long, after all, and I don’t want to be an overeager suitor attempting to get her knocked up right out of the gate. Although, of course, nothing would make me happier. The waiter comes back with my credit card at that moment, and sets it on the table.
“Thank you for dining with us again, Mr. Steele,” he says deferentially. “We hope to see you again soon.”
“You will. Thank you, Samuel.”
I leave a hefty tip and wrap my arm around Addy’s waist to guide her out of the restaurant. She leans into my side, and this feels absolutely right. As we step through the doors, the air outside is cool and comfortable, and we both let out sighs.
“Wow, it’s beautiful out,” Addy says. “The evening rays are so beautiful.” We’re right next to Central Park, and the tall trees beckon.
“Let’s walk through the park for a bit,” I suggest. “It’s not too late. Come on, sweetheart.”
Addy grins.
“You don’t have to ask twice. Central Park is my favorite part of New York, although I do love Gramercy Park, too. Gramercy is usually quieter and only a short walk from House of Steele. I go there on my lunch breaks sometimes,” she confides. “It’s nice, and helps me relax after the stress of the office.”
As we stroll to the park, I secure my arm about her waist again.
“That’s good to hear, but is work going okay?” I ask. “I know that from my vantage point you’re doing fantastic. But how is it on a day-to-day basis?”
Addy thinks for a moment.
“It’s good,” she says slowly. “Thank you for hiring an assistant for me.