The longing in his voice is evident. For a moment, I wish those sentiments were directed toward me. But it’s better if he’s searchingfor something meaningful and not relying on me to meet those expectations. I’ve been in relationships where I do all the heavy lifting. That’s not what I want, and even though Jabari doesn’t seem like the type, I’m still searching for his red flags.
I blink. Is that because of Jackie or my own fears? Though I tend to move slowly in relationships, my mind has a tendency to race ahead. Past experiences remind me how often I was left with the short end of the stick. So maybe it’s a combo of the lingering effect of Jackie’s words and my own caution.
“I’m sure you’ll figure out the next steps. I’ve been praying for you.”
“Thanks, Val.” Jabari reaches for my hand, and I thread my fingers through his.
The sigh I tamp down at the connection is real and fills my chest with an ache. What is it about this man that makes me want to go all in and just feel? I’m not sure that’s something I often allow myself. I’m always worried about what others are thinking and how to respond appropriately. My own emotions take a backseat so often they don’t even show up to the party or bother crashing the gates when I need them. I want to give myself permission to experience life.
Thendo that. Enjoy the touch of his fingers,the warmthin his palm,the way your heart beats with expectation.
I might actually cry if this date doesn’t end in a good-night kiss. Then again, do I want to be the kind of girl who kisses a guy after one date?Wait,this is the second. Plus,if he’s the right guy...
My lips quirk up automatically once again.
“Sir, we’re here,” the driver announces.
I look out the window and frown. “An office building?” There’s a sign for a bank in the bottom window.
“It is, but it’s not. Trust me.” Jabari gets out and holds out his hand.
Since I very much want to know where he’s taking me, I allowhim to help me out of the car, then follow him into the nondescript building. At least it doesn’t have danger written all over it.
“We’re going to the second floor,” he says.
Up ahead is an elevator, so I guide us in that direction and press theuparrow. When the doors open onto the second floor, I gasp. Somehow we’ve found an oasis in the middle of the city.
“What is this place?” I whisper.
“Le Pavillon. I hear it’s a plant lover’s dream.”
“It really is.”
My heart is filled with wonder as I stare at the lush greenery all around us. Umbrella plants, plum yews, ferns, and other foliage enhance the beauty of the place. I want to do a dance or even jump up and down squealing like that oneFriendsGIF. Instead, I calmly follow the hostess and Jabari as we head into an alcove that has a table for two. We’re secluded from other customers but situated in a way that allows me to stare at the plants to my heart’s content.
My gaze finds the man in front of me. “Thank you so much. This place is gorgeous.”
“I wanted to wow you on our first date, well, second.”
Heart. Melt. “Consider me wowed.”
“Yeah?” Jabari leans forward. “So wowed you’ll go on another date with me?”
He wants to go out again already? How does he know? Then I remember the words he seared into my heart.
“Val,you have to know how incredibleyou are. I don’t know how you expect meto spend time with you andnotfall for you.”
He seemed sincere when voicing them, and despite my hesitation my brain automatically marked them asNever Forget. But now, sitting across from him, I’m actually starting to believe the truth because of his actions.
“Jabari ...”
“I’m not trying to pressure you.” He sits back. “But I am trying to make sure you understand how much I like you.”
“I’m beginning to realize that,” I admit softly.
“Good.”
Our server comes and takes our drink order, leaving us time to peruse the menu. The offerings are seafood centric—praise God! I love seafood—and have fresh herbs and vegetables to complement the main centerpiece. When the server returns, I order scallops and brussels sprouts. Jabari goes for the beef. He may not be skating every day, but he’s still working out.
