Look Ahead, What Do You See?

Lila

The cinnamon rolls were divine. But Dane's quiet was disturbing. It was also odd. She was used to his cold silences. Used to his angry, trying-to-keep-myself-from-exploding silences. This was different. A distracted, uneasy silence. As they chewed cinnamon rolls and drank the fresh orange juice, he would answer any question she asked, even smile a little. Then descend right back into distant eyes and a pinched forehead.

Finally, when she caught him staring at the wall, frowning, she reached out to touch his hand. He blinked and jerked like he was surprised.

"I really think you should tell me what's on your mind," she said carefully. "Something's obviously bothering you. Is it me? Is it…this?" she gestured between them.

He turned his hand over to lace their fingers. "No. Of course not." He picked at the roll in front of him, but his frown was deep. "The opposite, actually."

Lila raised her eyebrows.