I'm Not A Pet

His lips pulled in a short smile as he approached her holding yet another tray.

“Here. Some fruits, cheese and crackers.” He settled the tray next to the one he’d carried the wine on. “Here’s hoping your stomach doesn’t revolt.”

She placed her hand on her belly and tried to sense some sea sickness. There wasn’t even a dizzy spell. Ha… maybe her fear of open waters was all in her head, catalyzed by sinking ship movies. Maybe she could even take a swim. She chortled at that.

And end up in a Jaws sequel? No thanks.

“So far so good.” She pinched a grape from its stem. “Grazie.”

“Prego,” he returned with a slight nod of his head. He moved to reclaim his seat, to Talia’s irritation.

Why won’t he sit next to me? she wondered, popping the grape into her mouth. Why do you care? That’s not why you are here.

True, that wasn’t why she was there. She placed the wine glass on the tray and turned around to face him with her legs crossed. The hand lifting the drink to his lips paused and he lo