Danger

As Ryan comes around the counter to stand next to him, Alec can feel an awkwardness rise. He shouldn't have come. He never should have come here, and he knew it. As she explains the job slip, her words fall on deaf ears, and his eyes have no intention of looking at what she was showing him. Instead, he's caught gazing at her face... listening to her voice... watching her stand there with graceful confidence. He had no idea what she was saying about his bike. He was overcome with confusion, awe, gratefulness, and more humility than he thought he'd ever have. He had broken this woman's heart and harmed someone she loved... yet here she was, having just done one of the nicest things for him. 

Not caring what she'd just tried to explain, he reaches out with a gentle finger under her chin to turn her face towards him. Staring into her gaze, his eyes were the eyes of a broken man, overwhelmed by her kindness. "I thought nothing would ever amaze me again," he mentions softly. His thumb moves to brush her cheek lightly. "But you just can't help it, can you?" 

Only now does he realize that his heart is racing. His arms ached to hold Ryan. His lips burned to kiss hers. His soul cried out for her companionship. 

Sensing the danger of his position, Alec quickly lets his hand drop and he retreats a couple steps before turning his back on her. Setting his hands on his hips, he takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly. His eyes stare out the window as he tries to keep his thoughts together. 

"Thank you," he finally concludes. "You've been most kind. If I can ever repay you... let me know."