Coffee and Conclusions

by Emma Sterner-Radley

  Erin gave a victory yell, and Isabella smiled to herself. Only her upbringing kept her from making the same kind of sound.

  Instead, Isabella settled for sighing happily and adding, “I missed you the second you left, to be honest. Sad, isn’t it? I missed you so much that I went online and researched some of your interests.”

  “Ooooh, what might they be? Dalmatians? Pastries? Sexy baby mamas?”

  “No. And I’m not answering any more questions if you are going to keep clowning around like that. Speaking of questions, did you ask Chris about time off?”

  “Yep. I did, and he said he’d see what he could do. I think we have a good chance of meeting up again on Wednesday.”

  Isabella felt herself breathe a sigh of relief. “That’s great news. We’re looking forward to seeing you again.”

  “Well, either that or Alberto’s learning to crawl so he can get away from me when I visit.”

  “Don’t be silly, Erin. He likes you.”

  There was a long pause on the line before Erin replied, “Okay. So, um, what are we doing for our next date?”

  “I don’t know. Activities can be a bit tricky with babies.”

  “Ah, the lil’ man’s no good at bowling?”

  Isabella scoffed. “He’s probably better at it than I am. Sports aren’t really my forte.” Erin sniggered, and Isabella felt a buzz at having made Erin laugh.

  “Well, there are activities we can do at your place. I mean, third date is when a lot of couples do the deed, y’know,” Erin teased.

  “Ah, the third date and not the second? I suppose that explains why you left last night and didn’t come to bed with me,” Isabella countered without missing a beat. She was glad they were discussing the topic that bothered her even before Erin had left.

  Erin was quiet for a while and then almost whispered, “You wanted me to stay?”

  “Honestly? I didn’t want to push you or seem too eager, but, yes, I thought that was where the evening was headed. You were so considerate, though, so I assumed you wanted us to wait.”

  Erin sighed, then laughed a little. “Well damn. I feel like such a dumbass. That explains your behavior at the end of the night. Um, yeah, I did want to wait, because I wanted to make sure you were ready and be certain I wasn’t pushing you. Other than that, I was frickin’ starving for you.”

  Isabella felt a jolt as adrenaline began to pump through her veins. She tried to sound calm as she replied, “Then we should feed that voracious appetite of yours on the next date.”

  “Are you sure?”

  “Erin, I couldn’t be more certain. I’m ready. I…I need you.”

  Isabella heard Erin blow out a long breath before saying, “Yay! Not only are you taking me to bed, but I now know what to expect. You are saving my nerves a lot of anguish here, doll.”

  Isabella smiled and tried to calm her thundering heart. “Likewise. And I can’t believe you just called me doll. Who says that these days?”

  Erin groaned. “Sorry. I picked that up from playing poker with old New Yorker guys when I first moved to the city. I’ll try to stick to babe—if you’re okay with that one?”

  “It’s not my preferred term of endearment. But I really like it when you say it.”

  “Cool.” Erin cleared her throat. “So, um, what else are we doing on Wednesday? I mean, before the kid gets sleepy?”

  Isabella laughed and looked over at Alberto, who had just managed to roll himself onto his back and was now trying to go back onto his stomach.

  “Same as yesterday, perhaps? Dinner and a movie. Is that dull?”

  “Babe. We have loads of X-Men movies to get through. I say we should do at least one per date.”

  Isabella closed her eyes as she laughed. “That’s settled, then.”

  A few hours later, Isabella wished she was still enjoying the flirty banter with Erin over the phone and not stuck sitting at a long and expensive teak table. It didn’t matter how elegant the dining room was or how lovely the soft sound of Brahms playing in the background, or how tasty the salmon coulibiac on her plate. Dinner at her parents’ house was a long and somber affair. Uncomfortable silences were broken by long lectures from her mother. Isabella decided that moving back to Philadelphia had been a very bad idea.

  She was almost relieved when Alberto cried and she had to take him out of the room to soothe his stomach. But once he’d settled, Isabella had to resume her place at the dreaded table. She focused on her food and the occasional, hushed small talk with her father.

  Whenever Judith looked away, Alberto Sr. took the opportunity to tickle his grandson or let the baby grab one of his big fingers and gum it.

  Suddenly, Judith put her cutlery down with her usual poise. “So, Isabella. How have you settled in to your new home? It’s obviously rather bijou, but it seemed adequate.”

  “Yes. It’s been fine. Plenty of room for me and Alberto.” Isabella returned her focus to her food, reluctant to give Judith information, simply out of habit.

  Judith took a sip of her wine. “I see. Have you had any help with getting the place in order?”

  Isabella knew that tone of voice—polite interrogation. “Yes, little Alberto has been great help picking out curtains and blankets. He decided on a navy blue theme to match the sofa, and I have to agree with his decision. It looks lovely against the light-gray walls.”

  Alberto Sr. coughed quietly, probably to hide a snigger. Her mother caught her gaze and held it.

  “Isabella Martinez,” she said. “Are you being facetious?”

  Isabella looked her straight in the eye, not wavering an inch. “No, Mother. I was merely making a joke.”

  Judith looked displeased, but as usual, she kept her cards close to her chest. She took another sip of wine before casually asking, “So, no visitors?”

  Before she could pick up her water glass, Isabella stopped her mother’s hand. Oh well, now is as good a time as any. She sat up straighter and ignored her quickening pulse.

  “Yes, actually. One. Which reminds me,” Isabella turned to her father. “Daddy, do you think you could babysit Alberto for a few hours one evening? In case I want to go out for dinner with someone?”

  Alberto Sr. was just about to open his mouth to reply, but Judith spoke first. “You’re asking him and not the both of us?”

  Why would I want someone around my son who thinks denying a child dinner or locking them in the basement are acceptable child-rearing techniques? Isabella knew it wouldn’t do any good to say that. They’d simply spend the rest of the evening arguing. Besides, if she caused a fight over this, it would be harder for her father to get away and babysit without her mother coercing him into bringing her along. Subtlety was the better plan right now.

  “I didn’t ask you, because I know how busy you are with work. Daddy’s retired and likes being around children. That makes him the obvious candidate for babysitting. Besides, we all know that your grandson and your Chanel suits don’t mix well.” Her mother dipped her head as if to concede the point, and Isabella felt her breathing slow down a little. She’d pulled it off. “That is, if you are willing to babysit, Daddy?”

  Once more, her mother cut in before her father could reply. “So, there is a romantic partner on the horizon? Someone you are dating?”

  “I didn’t say that, Mother. I might just as well be dining with a friend, an old acquaintance from work, or even Marie,” Isabella replied without looking over at her mother.

  She kept her gaze on her father, and he seemed to appreciate it. He gave her a nod which looked almost conspiratorial. Oh, I bet Mother will make him pay for that later.

  “Of course, mija. I’ll babysit the little tiger anytime. Oh, and speaking of Marie, have you heard about the new affirmation classes she plans to start running?”

  Normally, Isabella hated talking about Marie’s questionable doctr
ines, but her father had hit on the one subject guaranteed to drive Judith away from criticizing Isabella’s life, criticizing Marie’s.

  “No. What does that entail?” Isabella asked innocently.

  Judith glared at her, and Isabella knew that the subject of her love life was not over, merely put aside for the moment. Judith put her glass down and gave a heartfelt scoff before launching into a diatribe about how Marie’s new classes would never take off and how she should get herself a “real job.”

  Well aware that her mother believed that writing was also on the list of jobs that were not “real,” Isabella just nodded and finished her food. Her father did the same, both of them happy to be out of the firing line for a while.

  Alberto Jr. blinked at his ranting grandmother as though he was trying to understand her point of view. Isabella smiled sadly at him. If you can achieve that, you’ll be the only one in the room who can.

  In the taxi home, Isabella texted Erin.

  Hey, preciosa. Quick question: I know you said you had spoken to Chris about getting cover for Wednesday, but did you mention Marie to him? Xx

  The reply took a while. Erin was apparently busy—maybe with working out or playing online poker? Just as the taxi neared her apartment and she was about to put her phone away, it beeped.

  Hi, babe! So glad to hear from you. Does that mean you’re freed from the dungeon now? ;-) Yep, I mentioned that you had a sister who was smart, sweet, and on the market. He seemed interested, esp. when I said what she did for a living. He said he likes positive women. He wants to see a pic. Lol. Xxx

  Isabella smiled as she typed.

  Yes, I’m free and almost home now. When I get in, I’ll switch on the computer and call you, then send over a picture of Marie. I feel like I owe her a favor after letting Mother spend 40 minutes insulting her tonight. Besides, if she’s not single, she won’t text me so many “inspirational quotes for the day,” and that would be a huge relief. Speak soon. xx

  Chapter 18

  Wednesday

  Mentally thanking the two personal trainers who’d covered for her, Erin stepped off the train, stretched her legs, and ran for the nearest taxi. She was going to see Isabella, and every second waiting was torturous.

  All throughout their Skype chat last night, Erin had looked at the woman that she was now officially dating and wished she could be in the same room as her. Breathe in her scent, touch her skin, and ask for another kiss. Or seven.

  She sent a text from the taxi.

  Hey babe! On my way to you now, should be there in a few minutes. I’m excited like a goddamn kid. Can’t even pretend to play it cool. What the hell have you done to me? Xxx

  The reply came in right away, and Erin got an image of Isabella and Alberto pacing the apartment with one eye on the phone and another at the door, waiting for her. She was well aware that the image might be mere wishful thinking.

  Good afternoon, preciosa. I’m excited too and nervous as well. Like a virgin on her wedding night, if I’m completely honest. It’s pathetic, and I blame you entirely. Hurry up and get here (safely). Xx

  Erin stared at the text, a strange feeling growing in her stomach. Was Isabella alluding to the fact that they had talked about going to bed together tonight? Was that what the virgin comment meant? Or was she just using that as a metaphor for being nervous about seeing Erin in person again? Is there any other reason for her to be anxious?

  She vowed to test the waters to make sure Isabella was still comfortable, that she wanted to sleep together as much as Erin did. She would point out that there was no pressure, and if something happened, she would be really frickin’ gentle. And considerate…and passionate…and tender…and loving…and Erin felt nervous too. Just as the taxi pulled up at Isabella’s apartment.

  She paid the driver and, at the door, buzzed the intercom. Isabella opened the door with Alberto resting against her shoulder.

  “Hello. I was at the window and saw you arrive. Come on in.” Isabella stood aside, and Erin walked past her and Alberto into the corridor.

  “What? I don’t get to poke your stomach this time?” Erin joked.

  Isabella gave her a scowl that quickly morphed into a tentative smile. Her uncertainty was endearing, but Erin got a feeling it was an alien and uncomfortable feeling for Isabella. She tried her best to think of ways to make Isabella comfortable.

  Just before they went into the apartment, Erin leaned over and cheekily stole a kiss, softly, quickly pressing her lips to Isabella’s before pulling back. It was Isabella who leaned in and returned the kiss, demanding more. The kiss was intense, deep, and passionate. It was so easy to get lost in the whispered promises of that kiss, that Erin forgot who and where they were, until Alberto made a noise that sounded like he was trying to imitate an owl.

  Erin moved away, panting, and worried that she’d somehow upset him. Isabella interpreted Erin’s actions differently and seemed to think Erin had reacted to the sound he had made.

  “I know. I don’t why he keeps saying that. He’s been doing it all morning. I suppose he is just trying it out, but it’s still peculiar.”

  She nodded and forced herself to smile. Chill, Black. Everything’s fine. He’s not gonna throw a fit just ’cos you kissed his mother. She shook her head to clear the fuzziness left over from the kiss…and the worry.

  When they were inside, Erin dropped her rucksack onto the table. Isabella glanced over, and Erin wondered at what point she’d start asking Erin to hang it up on the coat stand or something. She guessed she had another date or two before the romance wore off enough.

  “So, protein bars, comics, and a water bottle as usual? It seems to be quite a big bag for so few items, if you don’t mind me saying.” Isabella placed Alberto in the baby gym.

  Erin scratched her neck. “Actually, there are a few other things in there today.”

  “Oh, did you buy Alberto another toy? You don’t need to buy his affection, you know.”

  “Um, no. It’s not that. It’s, um, some overnight stuff. You know, toothbrush, face wash, deodorant. That kind of stuff. Not to make any assumptions or to pressure you or anything.”

  Isabella fiddled with her watch, a slim thing in silver and black. “That’s fine, Erin. I don’t find it presumptuous.” Isabella cleared her throat and tucked her hair behind her ear. Her gaze just to the side of Erin.

  Cursing herself for doing the opposite of relaxing Isabella, Erin stepped forward and took Isabella’s hand. “Seriously, though. There’s no pressure, Isabella. I only want to take this further if you do too. I don’t want you to be uncomfortable or, you know, afraid.”

  Isabella looked annoyed. “I’m not afraid. Jesus, Erin. What the hell is in those jeans of yours that could make me scared, a grizzly bear?”

  The joke was nearly irresistible. “Nope. I trimmed when I showered this morning.”

  It seemed to take Isabella a short while before she got it. When she did, she clearly aimed for a disapproving look but broke into a grin instead.

  Working on the good vibe she’d started, Erin brought Isabella’s hand up to her mouth as if to kiss it. She turned it palm up and then blew a raspberry onto it; the farting sound made Isabella jump and Erin laugh.

  “Erin! What are you—eleven?”

  “No, if I was, I wouldn’t need to trim,” Erin said with a tired sigh.

  Isabella gave a confused frown. “You make it sound like you spent hours cutting your pubic hair. When I saw it on camera, it seemed perfectly normal…” Isabella stopped herself midsentence. “Why are we even having this conversation? I’m turning into you. I’ll have to beat some decorum into you, Miss Black.”

  Erin snorted. “You could try, lady.”

  “I hasten to add that I’m obviously not referring to actual violence. It’s just a figure of speech.”

  Pulling Isabella into a hug, Erin mumbled, “I know.
Relax…” into her neck. She breathed in Isabella’s perfume and the smell of her skin, and calmed down; they both seemed to. Finally, she had Isabella in her arms, and everything was perfect.

  From the floor, Alberto softly cried, “Hoo.” Isabella laughed, and Erin smiled as she nuzzled the warm skin.

  A couple of hours and many kisses later, Erin found Isabella staring at her while she kneeled next to Alberto in his baby gym. “What?”

  “Nothing. Just watching you with him. You seem a little unsure. I’ve been assuming it’s just because you aren’t used to babies but…” Isabella trailed off.

  Erin sat up. “But what?”

  “Looking at you now, I wondered if there might be more to it than that. You look as if you are terrified of him. Have I…somehow scared you away from interacting with him? I know I can give the impression that he only responds to me, because I’m very tightly bonded to him, but he really is fine with other people.”

  Erin went to run her hand through her hair and remembered that she was wearing it in a long braid down her back. She settled for running her hand over the braid, stalling for time.

  “No, no. It’s nothing you’ve done.” She looked down at Alberto, as he smiled up at his mother. She considered how much to tell Isabella and settled for a light version of her thoughts and feelings about Alberto.

  “Like you say, I’m not used to babies. And, you know, it’s a lot of responsibility. I guess I’m just worried about getting stuff wrong.”

  Isabella looked down at Alberto while she pondered Erin’s statement. “I see what you mean. Yes, there is a lot of responsibility with babies and, yes, it’s possible to get things wrong. But as long as you’re sensible and care about his wellbeing, you shouldn’t get it too hideously wrong.” She looked back up at Erin and smiled at her before continuing. “Babies are a whole new world when you’ve never been around one. It was for me. During Alberto’s first weeks, I’d ask Richard questions, as he had experience with Joshua. But even then, Richard wasn’t very present. He was always working or too tired for baby talk. So, I learned things by trial and error, reading baby books, and a surprising amount of Googling strange questions.”