Ella and I aren’t super close yet, but I feel our bond growing stronger every day. She’s a fun, attractive girl with big ambitions. She has a great sense of humor and is always in a good mood. For the next half hour, we chat and enjoy our delicious meals. I was just about to pry her secret recipe for that amazing vinaigrette out of her when the doorbell makes us both jump. I was so engrossed in our conversation that I hadn’t noticed the delivery guy arrive.
“Package for Ms. Nora Dewolf.”
“That’s me.”
“Please sign here.”
I sign for it and wonder what’s inside the package. As far as I can remember, I haven’t ordered anything this week.
“Ladies, have a nice afternoon.”
The delivery guy winks at Ella and is gone as quickly as he arrived.
“Hmmm, maybe I should order more packages.”
Ella gazes longingly at the young, handsome delivery guy as he walks back to his van. I realize I don’t know much about Ella’s love life. Aside from the fact that she’s currently single, I know almost nothing. I really need to change that soon. Meanwhile, I open the package and find a rich assortment of delicious Neuhaus chocolates, including all my favorite triangles, les Irrésistibles. Fitting. How does he know these things? The note inside confirms my suspicion.
To the president of the fan club.
Always delicious.
A.
I blush immediately and can hardly hide my excitement. How he knew these were my favorite chocolates, I don’t even want to know.
“Okay, girl, spill it, do you have a secret admirer?” Ella peers curiously into the package and whistles meaningfully when she sees all the treats. “So, yes?”
“Maybe, yes, but it's not what you probably think.”
“Uh, what exactly do I think?”
“I know how it might look, but we’re not really a couple or anything. We’re kind of taking it day by day, you know?”
I blush again. Aside from Anna, I haven’t talked to anyone about Andreas. Even Dennis has no idea.
“A man who sends you chocolates?” Ella raises her eyebrows. “That’s a man who wants more than just ‘day by day’, Nora.”
I quickly push down the hopeful butterflies trying to take flight in my stomach.
“I’m afraid I have to disappoint you, Ella. Although I wish you were right,” I admit honestly.
“Who knows, girl, I’m hopeful for you.”
Ella doesn’t even know who it is, but she’s as optimistic as ever. She says it’s time for her to go again and gives me a tight hug before leaving. I take my phone and send Andreas a message.
Nora
The president thanks you!
Within a minute, I get a reply.
Andreas
You’re welcome, gorgeous.
It’s a good thing no one sees me here now, completely absorbed in my phone.
Andreas
