Page 38 of One Hundred Desires
The warmth of their laughter seemed to chase away the chill in the air, and Viv found herself drawn even closer to Red. She could again feel the heat radiating from his body as they walked side by side, and she couldn’t help but take note of the way his eyes sparkled in the moonlight.
As they continued to discuss the movie, Viv became more engrossed in their conversation. It was as if they had tapped into a wellspring of shared interests, each new topic leading to another, each moment deepening their connection.
They delved into the finer details of the film’s plot, dissecting the characters’ motivations, and speculating about possible alternative endings. It was a rare treat for Viv to find someone who shared her passion for old iconic movies.
At one point, their conversation turned to the movie’s soundtrack, and Red began to hum one of the catchier tunes. Viv joined in, and soon they were laughing together as she butchered the melody.
Lucky trotted happily ahead of them, occasionally stopping to sniff at interesting scents or chase after a rustling leaf. The sight of him so carefree and content warmed Viv’s heart, and she found herself grateful for both the dog and the man walking beside her.
As the night wore on and they looped back towards Red’s house, a pang of sadness at the thought of their evening ending stabbed at her heart. Viv had always been a city girl, born and raised. Even though she’d spent most of her life on Centre Island, the bustling streets of New York were only a train ride away. The noise, the crowds, and the never-ending energy had been her life for as long as she could remember. But as she walked alongside Red that evening, she couldn’t help but appreciate the tranquility and simplicity of small-town life under a starry sky.
Viv noticed that Red seemed more relaxed than she had ever seen him. His usual air of bravado had been replaced with a genuine vulnerability that she found both surprising and endearing. They spoke candidly, their conversation flowing naturally as they delved into the stories and experiences that had shaped them into who they were today.
“I never thought I’d say this,” Viv confessed, “but there’s something undeniably charming about this place at night. I mean, New York has its beauty, but it’s nothing like the peace and quiet of a small town.”
Red smiled softly, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “You know, I felt the same way until you came along. I thought small-town life wasn’t for me but seeing it through your eyes has made me appreciate its magic.”
As they continued to stroll, they opened up to each other about their personal lives, sharing stories and revealing vulnerabilities and insecurities. Viv spoke of growing up the youngest child and the only girl in a family of six brothers. Her family had run a bodyguarding business ever since she could remember, and she had always felt the weight of expectation on her shoulders.
“I am constantly trying to prove myself, you know?” Viv said, her voice tinged with both sadness and determination. “It’s like I’m living in the shadow of my brothers, who are naturally gifted at the family business. But I never let that stop me. I work hard and do everything I can to make my mark, to show that I am just as capable as they are.”
Red listened intently, his gaze never leaving her face. “That’s incredible, Viv. You’re a fighter. And you’ve clearly made a name for yourself. You should be proud of everything you’ve accomplished.”
She blushed at his words, touched by the sincerity in his voice. “Thank you. That means a lot.”
As they ventured further down the path, they stumbled upon a scenic spot where the wildflowers seemed to dance in the moonlight, the silvery beams painting a breathtaking canvas. A nearby stream gurgled softly, its crystal-clear water reflecting the shimmering stars above. They paused to take in the view, sharing a quiet, intimate moment as they stood side by side.
“You know, Viv, people have always misunderstood me,” he admitted, his voice low and vulnerable. “I’ve been labeled a womanizer, but the truth is, I’ve just been trying to fill a void in my life. I’ve been searching for something real, something meaningful, but I’ve never found it.”
Viv looked at him, her heart aching with empathy. “It’s because you’re looking in the wrong places. You can’t find forever in a one-night stand.”
Red nodded. “That’s true, but relationships are scary.”
“Anything new is scary, but you have to try at least. You’ll never find your forever if you’re always looking for your right now.”
He kicked a stone from the ground, rolling it into the stream. Lucky chased after it until he met the end of his leash, keeping him safe and dry. “You’re right, there’s more to life than empty connections.”
Warmth spread through Viv’s chest, her heart swelling with affection for this man who had allowed her to see a side of him that few others had. She reached out, placing her hand gently on his arm, offering comfort and understanding.
“I believe that we all have the power to change our lives, to fill those voids with something meaningful,” she said softly. “Sometimes, all it takes is faith in ourselves and the willingness to open our hearts.” She added that last bit for Cameron because she’d said that she didn’t think Red knew how to love, but to love, one needed to let their heart lead.
Red turned toward her, his expression filled with hope and gratitude. “I’m grateful that our paths crossed, and I’ve had the chance to get to know you. You see me. I mean, truly see me. Not the musician or the money. You see the man. You make me want to be better.”
“And you make me feel bad for using the safety word.”
“You should feel bad. That was a dirty trick.”
“It was, and I’ll make it up to you.”
“Oh yeah? How?”
“I’ll make you breakfast tomorrow.”
“You don’t cook.”
“I don’t, but I can toast a Pop-Tart, which I picked up at the store.”
“They had toaster pastries at the hardware store?”