Kyle smiled when she touched his hand and apologized. As she retreated he took her hand in his and gave it a gentle squeeze before letting go. His expression was one of understanding and warmth, not longing or regret.<br/><br/>“If you really want to cook for me – have at it. My kitchen is your kitchen, help yourself anytime.”<br/><br/>With that he also dug into his meal, starving as he was. As they took their first bites he thought about her last question. After finishing with a sip of his wine he replied thoughtfully.<br/><br/>“If there’s nothing pressing here at the house I would love to go and meet your folks. No pressure, though, since I’d guess that would be awkward for you. I’m sure they are giving you flak for not being married with kids by now. At least mine are…” he added with a wry smile and a roll of his eyes. “If you show up with a guy that could lead to a lot of pestering, so I understand if you change your mind on that,” he added with a chuckle before helping himself to another bite.<br/><br/>While chewing he made an expression that hinted he had forgotten to say something, but waited until he was finished chewing before speaking up.<br/><br/>“Oh, and about your apology – it’s accepted,” he said, reaching out to touch her hand again. “As long as you accept mine. I’m sure it was<span style="font-style: italic">me</span>who could have been less self-centered. That said, you didn’t do anything to apologize for. We were two good friends who fell for each other.” Kyle paused as he tried to explain how he felt without giving her the impression that he was still hung up on her – even though he actually was. “It didn’t work out, but that doesn’t mean I have regrets – because I don’t,” he added leaning in. “I wouldn’t have had things any other way.” It was then he realized he was still holding her hand and he blushed slightly, letting go after one last squeeze of his hand.<br/><br/>“So we’re cool from over here – just good friends again, if that’s OK with you.” He added, avoiding eye contact for a moment in hopes that he wouldn’t give himself away.<br/><br/>“And for dessert,” he added, changing the subject, “I have some bourbon bread pudding warming up in the oven. It’s really good, if I do say do myself. I really love Creole food,” he added as he took another bite.