Chapter Fourteen

Dominic, restless after their third therapy session, discovers Rosie in the driveway washing his truck—an act of service aimed at reassuring him. He worries about her in the cold, but she insists, admitting the session shook her perspective and that she simply wants to be near him for a while.

Inside, Rosie cooks empanadas as Dominic fights arousal and tries to offer words instead of just physical comfort. They both admit to feeling nervous; Rosie says his vulnerability makes her feel like they are on the same team. To lighten the mood, Dominic puts on her mother’s radio and asks to dance.

Dancing turns intimate. They talk about her signature dish and his lonely routines, and she invites him to join her Friday to see a potential diner space. Overwhelmed by desire but wary of breaking the no-sex rule, they kiss deeply. Rosie leads, undressing and guiding mutual gratification without full intercourse—Dominic uses “just the tip” and his hand while Rosie touches herself—both climaxing. Dominic vows to win her back, says he loves her, and they share a moment of honest eye contact.

Afterward, Dominic almost tells Rosie about the house he bought but hesitates when she also holds back. He asks her on a date the next night, which she accepts. She leaves after a tender goodbye, and Dominic resolves to end his silence, bring her to the house, and lay everything on the line.