My jaw flexes side to side, grateful that she simply understands, and it doesn’t feel like a big issue in terms of logistics, but it’s colossal step when it comes to a promising future. “I guess thinking that far into the future is a bright start to this first date. You’re totally going fast.” I’m completely joking with her. “But I think it’s a safe thought to have.”
She nervously gulps a sip of wine. “Okay, I should tuck into some food. It looks delicious.”
We each pile our plates with some cuisine and get settled into our meal.
“We could have had three courses, but I kind of felt that this would lead to less disruption.”
Her eyes flick up at me with a sultry look. “Why? In case you want to take me here on the roof?”
“Nah, I would wait until we’re in the car.” I love the banter that just flows with us.
She chortles a laugh at the memory and the fact that we had an escapade in my car all those months ago.
“I’m not sure anyone has ever done something this romantic for me, this dinner and location. Sure, I’ve dated, but it was always simple dinners or beer at the bar. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t need to have fancy stuff. It’s just you put a lot of thought into this.”
“You deserve it, plus I only bring my A-game.” I take a bite of food.
Isla sets her fork down. “It’s definitely worthy of praise.”
“Yeah?” I lean back, taking in the boost to my ego. “I have it in me to impress? I mean, I knew that, but you’re kind of a different type of judge.”The only one who matters.
She points her fork at me. “And I approve.”
“Besides, the next two weeks are our opportunity to have these kind of nights and alone time. Game season will be sneaking in time, between games and travel… that is, if we continue on this path.” I don’t want to be presumptuous.
“Where is your cocky demand? You sound unsure.” She’s completely entertained that she’s throwing me off my axis.
We need to change this up, as we keep circling back to a what-if. Action is the best step, not conversation.
I abruptly stand up and offer her my hand. “Come on?”
“Someone sounds like he has a trick up his sleeve.” She accepts my hand with ease.
I pull her out of seat, and we walk a few steps until I yank her to me to ensure our bodies are close. She yelps from the surprise move but seems pleased. Clasping our hands together, my other arm snakes around her middle to lead us in a dance.
“Oh my, Vaughn Madden is dancing with me in a romantic setting underneath the stars. Violins are playing for the women in this world whose image of you as the broody playboy is broken.”
I spin us around and tip her back. “Isla, they had a damn orchestra the moment the world learned on social media that you and I have a child together. The heart emoji now officially makes me sick from overuse.”
“The comments did get ridiculous but in a positive kind of way. I’m just thankful that we only let them see a photo of a little hand.”
“You don’t mind dancing without music?”
“It kind of makes it better. You might actually hear the thumping in my chest from excitement.” She squeezes my hand.
We continue to sway side to side. “I don’t need to hear it, I feel it, Isla. Just like I have since you’ve been sleeping in my bed in my arms.”
Her mouth parts open, trying not to read my eyes that are glued to hers. “I think this date is going well, don’t you?”
“It’s going more than alright.” I tip her back.
The sound of distant thunder doesn’t deter us. We continue our dance, and I inhale the scent of her hair while I bring her hand to my chest. This is nothing like I imagined a real committed date would be; it’s a thousand times better.
Lightning far away, followed a few counts later by thunder only makes this more unique.
She rests her head near my shoulder, and a relaxing breath hits her. “A stormfront is coming our way. It will bring warmer temperatures this week.”
I snort a laugh. “That’s what’s bringing the warm temperatures?” There is an underlying inappropriate meaning in my question. I swear I can hear her smile.
