Page 17 of Benji
“I’m not used to it either,” I said as he got to the door. “Sharing a bed with anyone. For what it’s worth. I’ve never done that.”
I felt stupid for saying that.
He stared at me from the doorway. “You’ve never...”
I snorted. “I know what you’re thinking. Yes, I’ve done many things with men, but sleep next to one?” I shook my head. “Never.”
A smile pulled at the corner of his lips before he gave me a nod and disappeared down the hall.
I considered turning the TV on but decided against it. The silence was perfect for imagining I was floating on a cloud. My blinks were getting longer, the lure of sleep edging closer with every deep breath.
There was no outside noise, no traffic, no yelling.
I was safe here.
I was showered, in clean clothes, with a full belly, and on the most comfortable bed ever.
Sleep hit me like a truck.
I wokeup to the smell of something delicious,something spicy and sweet, and my stomach growled. I followed the scent, seeing it was getting dark outside.
Nolan was stirring something on the stove.
“Smells good,” I said.
He startled. “Oh, hey. I hope you like curry.”
“Love it.” The truth was, I loved any food that wasn’t home-brand ramen. “I didn’t actually mean to fall asleep, but damn, that bed...”
Nolan chuckled. “You must have needed it.”
“Did you get your work done?”
“I did.” He nodded. “Well, as much as I could get done today.”
“Isn’t today Sunday?”
“It is.”
“You work on weekends too?”
“When it needs doing. I actually get more done at home than in the office. And it gives me a head start on Mondays.”
I looked around his kitchen. “Need me to do anything?”
“Uh... Can you set the table? Placemats are in the cabinet behind the table.”
“Sure.” I liked that he asked me to do something. It made me feel useful, and it only took opening a few drawers to find what I needed. I set the table with him at the closest end and me at his right. I didn’t want to sit opposite him, as far as body language was concerned. I wanted to have conversations with him, not interviews. I poured us a glass of water each and he soon put two bowls of rice and curry on the placemats.
“This smells so good,” I said, waiting for him to sit first. I slid into my seat, almost salivating at the rich aroma. “I haven’t had a proper home-cooked meal in so long.”
He smiled so easily. “Well, I hope you like it.” He nodded to the bowl. “Dig in. There’s plenty more too.”
I took a small mouthful and sighed when the flavours exploded on my tongue. I even did a little wiggle in my seat, and Nolan laughed. “Oh my god,” I said. “You made this?”
“I don’t cook often,” he said with a nod. “Kinda got used to it just being me and can’t be bothered. It’s easier to pick something up on the way home or get it delivered. Less mess too.”
I ate a few spoonfuls of rice, sauce, vegetables, and chicken, savouring every burst of flavour. I had to try and remember my manners so I didn’t shovel it in like a heathen.