The year is 2026

Madison woke up a few hours later, Zoe still in her arms. She stayed still not wanting to wake Zoe. She thought about what had transpired between them earlier that morning. She fought to control the rage that bubbled up within her as she remembered the abusive relationship that Zoe had lived through. No wonder there was this constant push pull, one step forward, two steps back that was happening between them. Zoe was trying so hard not to let her past influence this new relationship but sometimes the fear was too much to control. Madison was thankful that Zoe hadnt been there when she called. Confessing her love at this point might be too much for Zoe to handle. She would need to wait and show Zoe by action that she loved her. Zoe stirred in her arms and Madison moved Zoes hair away from her neck and gave her a trail of kisses starting by her hairline, down to where her neck met her shoulder. Then back up so she could whisper in her ear.
Good afternoon sleepyhead. How are you feeling?

Zoe turned in Madisons arms so that they were now face to face, just inches apart. Still a little tired but Im feeling better. Thanks for listening Madison, I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders.

Im just sorry you ever had to go through something like that Zoe. It must be hard to carry that around with you.

Ive had a lot of counseling through the years and for the most part it doesnt impact my life. But I realize now that Ive always avoided having a relationship so maybe Im not as good as I thought. Seems as though Ive been fooling myself all these years.

Well at least your starting to face it now. Whatever you need me to do just let me know. Im honored to know that youre willing to face your fears for me Zoe. It means more than I can ever express to you in words. Would it help if we went to counseling together?

You would do that for me?

Id do anything for you, dont you know that by now?

How did I get so lucky to find you Madison Kennard?

Personally I think it was fate. I believe that things are not random, they happen for a reason.

I never took you for the romantic type.

Im hurt, crushed actually. Im very romantic.

Well, you havent been very romantic these last few months.

Whoa, as I recall we agreed that you would set the pace Zoe. Ive just been along for the ride. If youll let me Id like to cook you dinner tonight and show you just how romantic I can be. What do you say?

Id like that. Let me go back to my place and freshen up. What time do you want me to come back?

How about 7? I need time to go shopping for a few things.

Sounds good. Let me go to the bathroom and Ill be on my way.

Madison stayed in bed while Zoe gathered up her clothes and walked to the bathroom. She was already thinking about the menu for tonight; a salad of mixed greens with gorgonzola and walnuts, shrimp sauted in garlic and oil over a bed of linguine, warm Italian bread, a bottle of Kendal Jackson Merlot and chocolate torte for dessert. The dessert she would buy but everything else she would make from scratch. Zoe emerged from the bathroom to find Madison deep in thought.

Hey, you okay? Im going to get going.

Yeah, just planning dinner. Let me walk you out.

They exited Madisons room and walked down the hallway. Jacob was sitting having a late lunch in the kitchen.

Hey Jacob, it was nice to meet you.

Same here Zoe. Maybe the three of us can go out sometime. Id like to get to know the woman who has managed to get into Madisons good graces.

Zoe laughed. I would enjoy that very much Jacob. How about this week one night we could all meet for drinks?

Sounds like a plan, Ill work out the particulars with Maddie. Have a good afternoon.

You too.

Zoe turned to Madison once they got to the door. I cant wait for tonight Madison. Ill see you at 7. Should I wear anything special?

Something casual, with room in the waistband. I intend to feed you well. You know what the say, the way to a womans heart is through her stomach.

I believe that saying is for men.

Picky, picky picky. Now get going Ive got work to do!

Madison gave Zoe a quick kiss on the lips and opened the door.

Ill see you later Madison. Zoe turned and walked down the hallway to the elevator.

Madison closed the door and walked into the kitchen.

My good graces? What the ***** was that all about?

Well, I didnt want to tell her that you were in love with her.

What are you talking about Jake?

Dont deny it Madison. You have never dated someone for three months and not had ***** with them. I swear I know you better than you know yourself. I can see it in your smile, and the way your eyes light up when you talk about her. Youve got it bad. Besides, momma T called and was pumping me for information. Seems you asked our moms about love at first sight a while back. So, all of the pieces just add up.

What did you tell my mom?

Just that the two of you were dating. Thats it, I swear. I know how you feel about your privacy. Its just nice to see you happy Madison thats all. Im happy for you. Is that so bad?

Madison moved over and gave her brother a hug. No Jake, its not so bad and thanks for not ratting me out to Mom and Momma B. The last thing I need is the third degree on Wednesday night during family dinner.

Okay, so were good?

Yeah, lets plan on going for drinks on Thursday. Ive got a favor to ask too. Can you make yourself scarce tonight? Im going to cook dinner for Zoe and she is coming over at 7.

No problem. Ill go over Davids place and hang there. Will the cost be clear by 10?

Yes, by then we should be in my room watching TV.

Madison made her way back to her room and threw on some clothes. She needed to go to the supermarket to get the ingredients for dinner.

Zoe had made it back to her place and was pacing the floor of her living room. She finally came to a decision and picked up the phone. Hi, Im glad youre there. No everything is going according to plan but thats the problem. I cant do this to her. I know I said I would get her to fall in love with me and then break up with her. I know I promised to avenge your broken heart but I just cant do it. Please, I dont want to lose your friendship, weve been friends since law school. Dont throw that away. Listen Im sorry youre upset but I cant play this any other way, Ive fallen in love with her. No, I dont think she will break my heart. I know she broke yours but this is different. Look, dont do anything rash. Lets have lunch tomorrow and talk this through please? Okay, Ill see you at around noon, the usual place. Thanks.

Zoe hung up the phone and started to pace again. Was Madison going to break her heart? Her anxiety started to flare and Zoe went in search of a zanax. She swallowed one with a large glass of water. Im not going to let my fear get the best of me. Now let me go shower and get ready for tonight.