Three Years Later, He Came Back Begging novel Chapter 32

The late-night snack tonight was seafood porridge and a few savory pies.

Felton showed up with a pink insulated thermos, handing it over to Bonnie. “This is the best porridge I’ve ever had in Cabinda. You have to try it. If you like it, we should go to the place together next time.”

Bonnie took the container, her smile bright and relaxed. “Thank you. You really didn’t have to bring this all the way over...”

She paused, then looked at him, open and genuine. “Do you want to sit down at the convenience store next door and eat together?”

Felton grinned. “Yeah, of course. Honestly, I thought you were about to invite me up to your place.”

He realized that probably came across too strong, so he hurried to add, “I’m just kidding. Really, I’m not using this as an excuse to come over. Helen told me you have a sensitive stomach and rarely eat dinner. That’s why I’m here, I promise.”

Bonnie laughed, her eyes turning into crescents. “I know, you don’t need to explain.”

Felton suddenly looked a little shy, rubbing the back of his head. When you’re hoping for something more, every interaction feels a bit charged. Especially with someone as beautiful as Bonnie. When she wasn’t smiling, she seemed remote, almost icy, like she could be on the other side of the world. But when she smiled, it was like the whole room woke up for spring.

They walked side by side to the convenience store. By the big windows, there was a long table with tall round stools. Bonnie and Felton sat next to each other, each of them holding a disposable bowl they’d gotten from the clerk.

Felton filled Bonnie’s bowl to the brim, making sure she got all the shrimp and crab. He handed her disposable chopsticks, set napkins and wet wipes right by her side.

He was careful. Thoughtful. Maybe a little too eager, but charmingly so.

Across the street, Lawrence had arrived at exactly the wrong moment. He couldn’t find a parking spot outside the apartment, so he’d had to leave his car on the other side of the road. Now he just sat there, quietly watching.

It was just past nine in Cabinda. The kinds of nights when young couples who’ve just gotten off work sit in the convenience store, sharing porridge and bites of warm food, laughing, shaking off the weariness of the day. You’d think they were dating. Or maybe even married.

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