Skip the condom

“Just so you know, I'm not always like that,” Amelia said as she slipped on her dress, her voice carrying a trace of defensiveness.

Lucas, pacing the room with his hands in his pockets, responded without missing a beat.

“Okay… but actions speak louder than words,” he said, throwing a glance her way before continuing his restless movements.

“Are you done?” he asked, stopping in front of her.

“Yes,” Amelia replied almost immediately, eager to leave his space after the awkwardness of the morning.

Amelia had faced enough embarrassment to last a lifetime, and all she wanted now was to go home and put it behind her. They left the house together after sharing a simple breakfast that Lucas had prepared—this time, thankfully, no one was drunk.

Amelia had to admit, once again, that Lucas was an excellent cook, but the lingering awkwardness from the night before overshadowed the meal.

Now, they were parked outside Amelia's house as Lucas had driven her home.

“Thanks for the ride,” Amelia said,