Literature of Love

(3) Home of Literature

Elnora

"Let me drive you home." The man beside me proposed after a long silence.

I didn't answer though, I am trying to weigh his words. I don't know, but I feel like I can trust him. He helps me get better when we're inside the bar, what harm could he possibly do outside?

Well, if you will think of it thoroughly, Elnora. There are no people outside, he could take advantage of you.

Would he, though?

I heard him sigh when I didn't even glance in his direction, "I'm Carter."

The moment he introduced himself is the exact second I peeked at him. He seems nice and respectful. I mean, there's no harm in trusting a stranger, has it?

There is. A part of me said. Trusting a stranger means you're letting another human being be part of your life. A new possible reason for another trauma.

"Okay..." I slowly trailed off, still unsure of my decision even though a part of me has already warned me about the possibilities.

Carter hummed while staring at me, "I don't mean at your house."

"Excuse me?"

"Home of Literature. It's a place for someone who loves literature. They have it all, books, paintings, crafts, anything related to arts and literature."

I've never heard of such a place before. The thought of being in a place where serendipity exists excites me. It's been a long time since I feel like this.

He looks at me expectantly, waiting for my answer as if my first response and the look on my face isn't enough for him.

"Sure. Let's go!" I gleefully agreed.

I've been here in the US for about a year but never did I hear about Home of Literature before. And meeting someone who knows that place is what I need at the moment. It piques my interest and I would love to see the place. It seems interesting.

While we are walking toward the parking lot, I can't help but think about the situation. Funny how I went to a bar to get drunk and forget my problems when I could just go and wander around the city. I stared at Carter's back which is facing me and I can't help but compare our heights. He is really tall, probably around 5'10 or '11 or so while I'm 4'11. I did not even notice it earlier. The timing of our meeting is actually not that bad, I must say. At least I'll be able to see such a place I didn't even know existed.

"Are we going together or separately?" He suddenly asked making me frown.

That's when I realized that he probably knew I have a car. My mouth dropped to an O. But I don't like to drive, plus I'm tired. So I did a thing that I know will embarrass me.

"Can I just ride on yours? I don't really feel like driving, but if you don't want to then—"

He smiled, "Silly, it's fine. We'll just drive back here to get your car."

He opened the passenger seat, I didn't even realize that we were already standing right beside his car. I muttered thanks as I slid inside. His scent invaded my nostrils as I lay comfortably in my seat.

"Where are you from? Asia?" He suddenly asked out of the blue as he motion me to put on my seat belt before he starts the engine.

I nodded my head and comply, "Philippines."

"Nice place."

"Yeah, you could say that."

He chuckles and I smiled. Hearing him let out a small laugh is pleasing, but the conversation stirred a question in my head. I change my position so I am facing him. His features amaze me.