Heat flushes my cheeks. I tuck my hair behind my ear, breaking eye contact so I can take a breather from his handsome face. No one should look that good. His eyes could glow in the dark, they are so bright. His jaw is square, sculpted, with an edge that’s sharp even under the light stubble he has grown.
His hair is combed back with thick waves that can’t be tamed due to the natural curl. There’re darker gray-and-white streaks and damn, he really pulls it off.
“Thank you,” I whisper quietly.
“I’m going to have the chef make you a new meal,” the waiter says, interrupting the moment between Elias and me. It’s a welcome relief. I need to remember how to breathe and I can’t with him touching me.
Gently, I pull my hand away from his, and he frowns as if he’s disappointed.
I can’t stop staring at the tattoos that I’m finally able to see. There’s so much he hides under his work attire. I would have never thought he looked likethat.His fitted shirt is stretched across his broad chest, his biceps stretching the sleeves. The tattoos disappear underneath and my mind whirls with familiarity.
Have I seen these tattoos before? There are plenty of men who have tattoo sleeves, so maybe I don’t know these particulartattoos. They’re black and gray designs, swirling up with intricate realism and abstract artwork that somehow blends very well together.
“I can also show you to another booth. Everything will be on the house tonight,” the waiter explains.
“Oh, that’s not necessary,” I rush to say, to turn down the kind offer.
“The decision is above my pay grade.” He winks. “But I agree with management. Come on, I’ll show you to your booth. It’s in the corner and away from people.”
He shows us to the secluded booth, a candle lit in the middle, and he places the menus down on the table.
“I’ll give you a few and be back,” he states to me for the third time tonight.
Winston rushes through the crowd and stands by the booth. “Guys, I’m sorry. I have to go. Dove isn’t feeling well. I think Winston Jr. gave her the flu. She really needs me home.”
“Aw no! I’m so sorry. If you guys need anything, let me know, and I’ll make sure you have it.” I stand and give him a hug goodbye.
I wonder if that means the night is over.
Elias and Winston shake hands for their goodbye.
“Thanks, Olivia. I’ll let you know. You two should still hang out. Night is young. I’ll see you tomorrow!” Winston taps the table with his knuckles, another farewell sign, then hurries out of the restaurant.
I’m left alone with Elias Carrington.
And I have no idea what to do.
11
ELIAS
I never thoughtI’d get to spend an evening with Olivia, especially under these circumstances. I know we’re only here as colleagues, maybe friends? But my heart says something else is happening, the start of something life-changing. The way she smiles melts every worry I’ve ever had. All of my problems seem so small and pointless when I’m sitting across from the most breathtaking beauty I’ve ever laid eyes on.
I could easily fall in love with her. If that last bit of restraint vanished, I’d want to try to build a life all over again. And I think I deserve to try. She’s worth the effort.
Internally, the voice in the back of my head scoffs. Here I am, planning my future with her as if we’re going to have a happy ever after, and she probably can’t wait to get home tonight after the evening she’s had.
I’m entranced by her.
The flame of the candle sways, the glow casting onto the side of her face, giving her an ethereal, time-capsule beauty that I’m lucky enough to see. Her lashes shadow the tops of her cheekswhen she looks down, reading the menu like I’m supposed to be doing.
How can I focus when the biggest distraction is sitting right in front of me?
The waiter comes back, interrupting the slightly awkward silence. “Here are some waters. I’m going to bring you a bottle of wine. On the house.”
There’s no way Olivia doesn’t know I’m staring at her. She can probably sense it and that’s why she’s keeping her head down.
“You don’t have to do that,” I insist. “I’ll gladly pay for the bottle.”
