Tyler and I entered Encore, a quaint bar snuggled up against the lake on Main Street in Big Bear. Dim lights, cozy vibes, the soft murmur of conversation, and the melodic rhythm of a band greeted us as soon as we stepped inside.
“This is cute,” I commented as we weaved through the small crowd to a booth nestled in the corner of the bar. We scooted across the plastic-covered cushions, the flickering candle on the table making it feel more intimate than the Velvet Anchor we usually frequented.
“I’m glad you like it.” Tyler flagged down a server and ordered drinks for both of us, along with a plate of my favorite fried snacks.
As we waited, Tyler leaned in close. “I’m a little nervous tonight,” he admitted with a shaky laugh.
His adorable dimples peeked out when he smiled.
I was still trying to push aside weeks of friendship to see him in a more romantic light. Tonight was a good night to really figure out if anything was possible. We were finally alone, just the two of us.
I reached over and gently touched his arm. “Don’t be. You’re going to do great.”
The drinks arrived, and Tyler took a sip before checking his watch. “I want to chat longer, but it’ll have to wait. I go on in five minutes. Are you good?”
“I’m great. Good luck up there,” I said, and he smiled before heading to the stage.
I settled into the booth, smiling as a wave of excitement fluttered through me while I watched Tyler take his placeon stage. He grabbed his acoustic guitar, and after some wire untangling and a few height adjustments, everything was finally ready.
“How is everybody tonight?” Tyler asked, and a few people cheered.
“Go, Ty!” I yelled, grinning.
He smiled at me from the stage.
“This first song is called ‘Oceans.’”
He began to strum, and a sweet melody filled the bar.
It was a happy chord progression with a little hint of melancholy.
Your smile lights up the night,
In your arms, I find a place to call my own.
Running across the shore, with sand between our toes,
Underneath the starry sky, a feeling starts to grow.
I listened intently, captivated by his singing. His voice was deep and slightly husky. Not only did he have a good voice, but the lyrics were beautifully written, and I found myself getting lost in them.
Oh, ocean deep and wide,
You reflect what's inside of me,
Caught in your tide,I'm falling, and I can't hide.
Caught in your tide.
No, I can't hide.
I closed my eyes, sitting in the dim light of the little booth and getting lost for a moment.
You look thoroughly breathtaking.
My eyes snapped open, the words Jay said to me earlier hijacking my moment.
I fidgeted in my seat, taking a long sip of my Coke and trying desperately to pull myself together as Tyler moved on to the next song. I really couldn’t be thinking about our boss right now.
