Posy paused for a second for her words to sink in.
“Second - breathe. You've got this."
Evie inhaled deeply, trying to slow her racing heart.
"Now, did he actually use the word 'date'?"
Evie shook her head, even though her friend couldn’t see her. “No, that’s why I’m not sure what this is, and after misreading things with Shepherd… Well, I don’t want to make a fool of myself again.”
"Well, it definitely sounds like Asher was asking you on a date. That boy's been making googly eyes at you for ages."
"Really?" Evie blinked in surprise. She'd never noticed.
"Trust me. And as for what to wear - that red sweater is perfect. Festive but not over the top."
Evie glanced down at herself, smoothing the soft fabric. "You think so?"
"Absolutely. You look gorgeous in it. Now stop second-guessing yourself and have fun!"
After hanging up, Evie felt marginally calmer. She applied a swipe of lip gloss, grabbed her purse, and headed out the door before she could talk herself out of it.
Asher was sweet, she reminded herself. Fun and easygoing. This didn't have to be a big deal. Just two single adults enjoying each other’s company over dinner.
Chapter
Eight
EVIE
Evie's stomach fluttered with nerves as she approached the restaurant. Through the frosted windows, she could see Asher already seated at a table, fiddling with the menu. Her heart gave a little skip at the sight of him in a festive green sweater, his sandy hair neatly combed. He was a handsome man in his own quiet way. Something that was easy to forget since he had a way of putting everyone at ease.
She paused outside the door, taking a deep breath to steel herself. This was just dinner with a friend, she reminded herself. No pressure. But as she smoothed her sweater one last time, doubts crept in. What if she said something stupid? What if there were awkward silences?
The cheerful jingle of bells announced her entrance. Asher's face lit up as he spotted her, rising to greet her with a warm smile that relieved some of her tension.
"Evie! You look lovely," he said, pulling out her chair.
"Thanks," Evie smiled back, feeling a blush warm her cheeks as she settled into her seat. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere enveloped her, the soft lighting and festive decorations creatingan intimate mood. She caught a whiff of cinnamon and coffee grounds, reminding her of Shepherd for a fleeting moment before she pushed the thought away.
"I'm so glad you could make it," Asher said, his blue eyes crinkling at the corners. "I was worried you might be too busy with the bakery this time of year."
"Oh, it's been hectic," Evie admitted. “But since Adrian has Ollie, I have a little bit of time on my hands." She picked up her menu, scanning the options without really seeing them. Butterflies were still racing around, causing a mix of excitement and nerves fluttering in her stomach.
"How are you holding up with Ollie away?" Asher asked gently.
Evie's chest tightened at the question. She swallowed hard, forcing a smile. "It's been...an adjustment. The house feels so empty without Ollie's laughter and endless chatter."
Asher reached across the table, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. The warmth of his touch sent a little jolt through her. His hand was warm and comforting on hers, and she managed a small smile, grateful for his understanding.
“And it's tough knowing he won’t be here for Christmas,” she admitted softly.
Asher nodded sympathetically. "I can only imagine. Kids have a way of filling up every corner of your life."
Did he say that with a hint of longing, she wondered?
The waiter approached then, and Evie withdrew her hand to check the menu again, but her mind was still half on Ollie. What was he doing right now? Was he missing her as much as she missed him?
"The pot roast here is excellent," Asher suggested. "Comfort food for a chilly night."
