Sushi Lunch Dates

I have been going on sushi lunch dates with Rich at least once a month since last April. There's a little tiny sushi place about halfway between our workplaces that I have loved for years now. The guy who owns the place knows me and my favorite roll (yellowtail with green onion) and he has seen me there with my parents and with my ex, Brandon. Him and his wife know me and Rich are together, or rather we assume they know since we show up so often and by the way his wife looks at us.

Today we decided to make an extra trip to Starbucks, which is just around the corner. We chatted with the baristas about sushi, then walked around and looked at the other restaurants. When we first started having sushi lunch dates, both of us were so paranoid we would be seen and what other people would think of us. Now we simply don't care. We walk side by side, my arm looped through his, drinking our raspberry mochas. He kisses me on the cheek as we peruse the menu of a Greek restaurant that he's been dying to try. We walk by yoga studios, bead shops, bars that have yet to open because of the early hour.

As we round the corner, we pass by a jewelry shop. One of his hobbies is to polish stones as gifts for friends and family. I've gotten several from him, and I cherish them. I convinced him to step inside since I knew he would like it. As soon as he walks in the door, he is in heaven. So many ideas for stones to make. He begins chatting with the store owner as I look at the jewelery. One thing I love about Rich is that he can talk to anyone and he always introduces himself. Usually Rich introduces me also if I'm with him, but today he forgot. The store owner asked for my name and then made a joke about not wanting to steal his woman. It felt good to know that people see us as a couple, not as say, a father and daughter, as I had feared people would. (Not that we look anything alike, but still).

We enjoyed looking at the jewelry, all made by local artists. We both admired the craftsmanship and the hard work that went into each piece. We talked about ideas for both my jewelry designs and his (I make beaded earrings). It was so much fun to be able to talk about a hobby that we share, even if they are slightly different. I've never had anyone to share something like that with, and neither had he.

After we left the shop, we walked around the block to our cars. We sat in my car and talked for a little bit, then kissed goodbye. I love his kisses. They are so soft, warm and passionate. I would be so happy if I could kiss only his lips for the rest of my life.

He's coming over to my place later to cook dinner and go for a walk. I always look forward to his kisses and hugs. They are the best I've ever received.

Till next time,

Katy