Kit was sitting in the lounge proud that she resisted the urge to have a drink and tapped her hand on the table anxiously waiting for Ivan. She was having doubts about all of the new attention that she was getting since doing the music with Slim Daddy. She desperately needed someone to talk to. Bette was unavailable and she didnt know who else to turn to. Ivan was a good listener and in spite of Ivans feelings for her, she knew that he would be there for her as a friend. Kit sipped her tonic and jumped up as soon as she saw Ivan walk in.

Hey babe! Ivan announced. Sorry I took so long, got hit in some traffic. You okay?

Ivan motioned for Kit to sit back down and he joined her in the adjacent seat.

Kit smiled and tried to look reassuring.

Yes. I just needed someone to talk to. You know how it gets sometimes?

Ivan smiled and reached for Kits hands.

Yes, I do. But its okay whatever it is. Im here with you.

Kit held on to Ivans hand and drew a deep breath. Kit looked around to make sure no one was paying attention to them. She looked nervous again, but Ivan continued to hold her hand.

Talk to me Kit.

Well, Im a little overwhelmed with all the attention Im getting since I did that gig with Slim Daddy. I know its a good thing, but Im kinda not used to it ya know?

Ivan nodded, but said nothing.

I get invited to lots of parties and stuff and everyones drinking and having a good time, which is good. But its harder for a girl like me ya know. Im getting over this drinking problem and I dont wanna start again, but I cant decline all the invitations either.

Kit lowered her head as she caught her breath. Ivan loosened his grip and put his hand on her cheek. It was a gentle reassuring touch that soothed her and made her feel very comfortable. Her nervousness subsided and she let out a sigh. Ivan smiled and he looked toward Kits face making her smile too.

Its okay Kit. Its okay to feel overwhelmed and nervous. Youve come a long way and it hasnt been easy for you. I know you deserve all the attention youre getting cause youve worked hard for it. Order drinks that look like the real thing or just be open about the fact that youre in recovery. No one with any heart will knock you for that. Understand?

Kit nodded. She felt better and was happy she called Ivan. He always made her feel comfortable and safe around him. He gave her positive attention and found ways to make her feel good about herself even in her times of doubt. Ivan had fallen hard for Kit and would do anything for her if she let him. Ivan dropped his hand and held Kits again. He drew it to his mouth and kissed it. Kit blushed. It had been a long time since anyone had shown her any true intimacy and it scared her. She knew Ivan was in love with her and although she had feelings for him, they were mixed and confused. Kit was afraid of what she was feeling at that moment and drew her hand back. Ivan sat up.

Im sorry Ivan. I didnt mean to

You didnt. Stop worrying Kit. I wont do anything you dont want me to. I enjoy your company. I love to see you smile or make you smile, but I wont force you in any way. Ivan confided.

Ivan and Kit sat and talked for a while longer before Kit decided they should leave. She had gotten hungry and wanted to get something to eat. Ivan got up and held the chair out for Kit as she stood then cocked his arm out for Kit to hold and they left.

Ivan drove Kit to a quiet restaurant on the other side of town. They were greeted and seated in a corner near the window overlooking a man-made pond filled with fish and lilies. Ivan stared at Kit and smiled.

This is nice Ivan. Kit said.

An odd feeling had come over her and she didnt understand it. She felt unusually relaxed and comfortable in Ivans company. It was the first time they had been outside of their usual comfort zones and it felt good to her.

Yes, it is. Im glad you like it.

The waitress came over to take their drink orders while they took their time to look over the menu. By the time the waitress came back with the drinks, they were ready. They ordered and started talking again.

How did you find this place? The atmosphere is so soothing.

A friend of mine told me about it a while ago. I come here once in a while to relax and enjoy their good food. Youre gonna love the food.

Good. Im looking forward to it. Ive gotten used to just going to the usual spots so this is a nice change.

We can keep this place between us if youd like. Kinda like our place if you want?

Kit blushed and smiled.

Yeah, that would be real nice Ivan.

Ivan smiled again and reached for Kits hand. She extended it and Ivan patted it. He stared at Kit studying her face and nodded approvingly. Kit blushed again, but this time she maintained the stare and nodded back still feeling the sense of unusual calm and relaxation.

The waitress came back with their food, interrupting their tender moment. She hurried to place the food and walked away. They ate in near silence, speaking only to compliment the food and to the waitress as she refreshed their drinks. They finished their meals and packaged up what Ivan couldnt finish. They each declined desert, paid the check and left.

Where to now Kit?

Not sure. Youve done a good job of handling things so far, Ill let you decide.

Ivan nodded and they left. He drove for a few miles before pulling into a park. He got out and escorted Kit out the car and down the winding walkway. He stole glances at Kit and she smiled back. They made small talk and continued until they came to a water fountain where Ivan motioned for them to sit on the nearby bench. There were a few people walking by and a young man being pulled on a skateboard by his dog. Kit found that amusing and she laughed. She turned to face Ivan.

Ivan, Im having a really good time. Thank you again for being there for me

No need to thank me. I care about you Kit you know that. If you need me, Ill be there.

Kit smiled, leaned over, and hugged Ivan. The unusual calm swept through her again and as they were breaking free of their embrace, Kit traced her lips across Ivans cheek. Tingles ran through her and she couldnt help yielding to it. She let her mouth meet Ivans. She pulled back before the kiss intensified and was about to speak. She stared into Ivans eyes and saw herself in his eyes. She paused and then let the kiss happen again. Ivan responded, then stopped.

Are you sure Kit?

Yes.

Ivan raised his hand to Kits cheek, pulled her close and kissed her so passionately that her eyes remained closed even after he stopped. When she opened them, Ivan was looking at her smiling.

Wow! Kit exclaimed. Its been a long time. Too long in fact since someone has kissed me like that. She confessed.

Ivan frowned.

Thats not good, but Im glad I was able to change that.

Me too.

Kit leaned over and kissed Ivan again releasing all the doubts shed previously felt.