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I turned onto the PCH. “I’m looking forward to your recommendations again. Dining with a chef is something I could easily get used to.”

“If you’re on your best behavior, maybe you’ll earn a third date, and we can do this again soon,” she teased.

“I'm already looking forward to it.”

She laughed. “I like your confidence.”

I parked behind Tra di Noi and came around before she could reach for the handle. I opened the door and offered my hand.

“Thank you.” She slid her palm against mine and stepped out carefully. “This sits lower than I’m used to. I was picturing a less graceful exit.”

“Then I’m glad I got here first.” I shut the door. “What do you drive?”

“A completely practical Toyota Rav4.” She looked back at the car. “I’m not really a car person. I don’t even know what this is.”

“Lucid Air Sapphire.”

She shook her head with a laugh. “Yeah, that didn’t help much, but the car suits you.”

“I’ll take that as a compliment.”

“You should.”

Inside, the hostess had my name and didn’t make us wait. She led us to a table for two in the back. I pulled Celia’s chair out before I took my own.

The smile she gave me made it clear she noticed again. “Did you tell your mom I complimented your good manners?”

“Actually, yes.”

Her eyes widened. “Wait, really?”

“She was quite pleased with herself.” Chuckling, I shook my head. “And then she interrogated me because I haven’t mentioned a date in much too long, according to her.”

“That makes two of us,” she confessed with a grin. “My best friend grilled me for all the details over coffee yesterday morning.”

“We’re quite the pair.”

That pretty pink filled her cheeks. “I guess we are.”

Tearing my gaze away, I dipped my chin at the wine list. “I’m in the mood for red tonight.”

“Then we’ll find a good one.” The restaurant had a vast selection, but she quickly found what she wanted. “The AJA Vineyards Malibu Coast Syrah.”

I looked where she pointed. “Local. I like that.”

“So do I.” She had an oddly wistful look in her eyes, but I didn’t get the chance to ask because the server came over to the table.

“I see you have the wine list out. I’d be happy to make a recommendation.”

“No need.” I smiled up at her. “My beautiful date has impeccable taste.”

Celia tapped her finger next to her choice. “A bottle, please.”

“Certainly,” the server agreed. “Would you like some time to go over the dinner menu?”

Celia’s gaze switched to me, and I shook my head. “I’m game for just about anything that goes with the red you ordered.”

“You don’t mind if I order for both of us?” she asked.