"Goodnight, Russ. Thanks for a really great evening." Melanie put her key in the lock and opened the door. Russ had stepped back from her, so she knew that was the only kiss she was going to get tonight. This time she wasn't bemused, she was annoyed. What's the matter with me? Or him? Walking into the restaurant at noon on Tuesday, Melanie spied Susan right away. She was beaming from ear to ear, and her news was written all over her face.
Taking a seat at the table, Melanie said, "I don't even have to ask! I'm so happy for you! What did the doctor say?"
"He said I'm fine and he doesn't anticipate any problems. Brian is so excited! I've never seen him this way before. We decided not to tell anyone else for a few weeks, just as a precaution."
"My lips are sealed. This is so exciting! When are you due?"
"Sometime in early April - as long as it isn't April Fool's Day. Now spill. What's going on with you and Russ? Start at the beginning. I want the whole scoop."
Melanie did just that - from the coffee disaster, the kick under the table, and the dinner to call a truce. She recounted the conversation where she told Russ about Rick, and this time she told Susan that Rick had been unfaithful.
"That scumbag! I'm so sorry, Mel. You should have told me."
"It's okay. I'm over it now, thanks to Russ. He's a really great listener, and he's been teaching me how to catch, clean and cook trout, so we've had lots of time sitting in the boat to talk. He's a really great friend to me."
"So, is he a good kisser?" Susan was grinning, but the grin soon faded as she heard Melanie's muttered answer.
"I wouldn't know." Her head was down, and she was blushing again.
"He hasn't kissed you yet? You are kidding me! That man is crazy in love with you!"
Melanie's head came up quickly and the shock was evident on her face. "Why would you say something like that? What did he say to you?"
"He didn't have to say anything. I was watching him when you were dancing with Brian. He barely took his eyes off of you, even when I was talking to him. Trust me, Mel, he's got it bad."
"Then why hasn't he made a move to show me how he feels?"
Susan was silent for a moment. "My best guess is that he's not sure you are over Rick yet, and he doesn't want to blow it."