It catches him off guard. I know it does even if he hides it.
A minor flinch. He quickly drew his hand away.
The water from his hand dripped on the kitchen floor.
I take a seat on the kitchen island, facing away from him. Giving him the space he needs. I find something to do with my hands. All the vegetables are peeled and sliced.
I take a few more potatoes and begin peeling. Nothing wrong with a few more potatoes.
He leans bank on the kitchen sink. I can feel his gaze burning my back.
He took his time before he finally answered, “Okay.”
I don’t move from my spot, I just wait. Like a feral animal, I wait for him to come to me.
Is this what it’s like to tame something so wild?
A few more seconds pass. Then a click. Charlie barks. She hates the sound of the coffee grinding machine.
I’m done with the first potato by the time he has finished with the monstrosity that he calls his beloved espresso machine.