I also couldn’t escape the feeling he knew exactly how many ways it could be taken.
Then I realised he was still gazing at me. Still smiling.
“I prefer to keep track of things I’m interested in.”
Oh God.
Stefan handed my phone back, and our fingers brushed briefly as I took it.
The way he’s looking at me.
He didn’t close the gap between us, but I knew he could have. Instead, he tilted his head in what was fast becoming a familiar gesture, his voice quieter now.
“Goodnight, Kieran.”
I wasn’t sure if I’d expected an invitation. I held his gaze, and for a heartbeat I thought about stepping forwards, taking the initiative.
I didn’t.
Stefan nodded, almost in approval, then turned and walked away.
My heart pounded, but I knew exactly what I’d just chosen not to do.
And how much harder it was going to be to stop myself next time.
When I got back to the apartment, I could hear the piano before I even opened the door.
Debussy.
Of course.
Karl was seated at the instrument, the notes soft and fluid under his fingers, filling the space without overwhelming it. He didn’t stop when I came in, but finished the phrase, letting the final notes settle.
He turned to glance at me. “Eventful day?”
I expelled a breath. “Very. Though I didn’t learn much German, unless you count the names of animals.”
Karl smiled. “And now I’m intrigued.”
I shrugged off my jacket and joined him at the piano. “I went to the zoo. With… a guide.”
Karl arched his eyebrows. “Oh?”
I hesitated for a fraction of a second. “He’s—” I stopped, then corrected myself. “He’s interesting.”
Karl turned a little more fully now, watching me with that quiet, perceptive focus of his. “And will you be seeing this… interesting guide again?”
“Yes,” I said. “Tomorrow.”
My chest tightened as I said it.
Karl stood, moving toward the sideboard. “Drink?”
“Please.”
He poured two glasses, then handed one to me. “So, tell me about him. Starting with his name.”
“He’s called Stefan.” I took a sip, buying myself a moment. “He’s confident. Very sure of himself.”