Second date with Mia.

Though it’s not the kind of thing anyone would call a date. No one will hear you complaining, however, since this was entirely your idea and even Mia was hesitant to accept.

“So I’m supposed to fit this wooden plank into this side… how?” You mutter silently to yourself as you pretend not to struggle with the assembly of a new desk for Mia’s study. Really, you’d think drawings and pictures would make the job easier, but when these don’t seem to match up to what you’re doing it’s just a nightmare. Behind you, Mia is taking books out of a big box, categorizing them and putting them in the bookshelf the both of you just finished assembling.

And this has been it so far. This is your second date. Helping Mia set up her new place. And considering she seems to be in a good mood, you’re glad you suggested it.

“Do you read a lot on your free time, David?” Mia asks as she keeps sorting her books. Her smile makes you pause for a second before you answer.

“I wouldn’t say a lot, but I always have a new book to keep me busy on my free time or a little before bed. It usually takes me about two months to finish a new book if I take my time. I think I read about 3 to 5 books a year? Not counting school books and papers, of course. So yeah, I read, but not a lot. How about you? Have you read all of those?” You nod towards the box.

“I have. Most of what’s here are gifts I keep for sentimental value or just all-time favorites. Any genres you enjoy?”

“Fantasy.” You answer. “Medieval fantasy to be precise.” Aha! So that’s how you fit this thing!

“Any favorites?” She asks, stretching to put a book on one of the upper spots. You look back and allow your eyes to stop on Mia’s amazing, tight blue jeans-clad behind for a few seconds, enough to commit it to memory. Man, Mia has a great rack, a great ass and a killer figure…

No, you must not compare them, you remind yourself! Your girlfriends are all beautiful and sexy and hot in their own ways and holy shit Mia’s bending over!

You quickly turn around and get back to work, snapping out of your thoughts to answer her question. “Lord of the Rings, though I guess I’m not being very original with that answer.” You clear your throat. “I also love the Arthurian legends.”

You talk about different things as you work, getting most of the important things set up. Mia got her clothes out of her boxes too while you were assembling her office chair. It’s already evening when you’re done. The two of you sit down on the couch in the living room with a glass of wine, apparently Mia’s preferred drink.

“I won’t apologize for having you help me with this all day. You’re the one who offered.” She tells you as she fills the glass on your hand.

“Good.” You nod.

“However, I will thank you.” She chuckles, filling her own glass. “I really wasn’t looking forward to doing all that on my own.”

You toast to a job well done, and after sipping your drinks and getting comfortable… things get a little awkward. Sure, it was fine when you were both busy, but now there’s this uncomfortable silence between you. After all, you’re in Mia’s apartment, alone and drinking wine.

“David,” Mia starts, nursing her glass. “I think it’s time we talk seriously. About what we’re both expecting out of these dates.”

Huh. It’s like she read your mind.

“Okay.” You nod.

“So, tell me. What do you hope to gain going out on dates with your teacher, a woman 14 years older than you?”

“You say we should talk and then ask me to speak first? How’s that fair?” You say, rising an eyebrow. “But fine, since age seems to matter so much to you, I’ll concede to following the wishes of my elders.” You tease, hoping she actually takes it as the joke it’s meant to be. “What do I hope to gain dating an older teacher? If I’m being blunt, I expect the same as when I started dating Emma, who by the way is also an older teacher.”

At which point did you also get used to the fact you can speak of having multiple girlfriend and even pursue more relationships and it being considered normal for everyone?

“That’s different. You and Emma are 7 years apart. She’s only 25.” Mia argues.

“And you’re only 32!” You sigh. “Age is not a factor for me, but it obviously is for you. I told you what I’m hoping about these dates. I hope we can grow closer. I like you, Mia. I really do. Not only are you an inspiration as my teacher, but you’re also an amazing woman.”

“…” Mia presses her lips as she holds her glass with both hands. “It’s not the age difference that bothers me, David. It’s our goals, our futures.” She closes her eyes and breathes deeply. “When I say there’s a 14 year difference, I mean there’s also a difference in expectations. David, I got married. Sure, I got divorced, but at one point I was ready to spend the rest of my life with that man.”

Oh. You think you’re starting to get where she’s coming from.

“If we keep pursuing this relationship, where will it end? Will we split up when you go to college? Will I find another job and be **** to move far away? Will you get bored of me eventually as I get older? I ask myself these questions, David, and they worry me.”

…

Mia bites her lip. “Emma says we should go out on dates and have fun, but… that’s not what I want.” Her eyes become crystalline as she tries to hold her tears. “I don’t want to be alone anymore. I don’t want to wake up in an empty house. I just…”