by Roses
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CHAPTER EIGHT
Table for Two
(Rose)
I was so excited that Christian had actually wanted to meet for dinner that I had raced downstairs after hanging up the phone, grabbed my purse, and headed straight for the car. Just as I was about to open the side door to the garage, Mom's voice rang out from the back door. "I take it your plans are a go with Christian?"
"Yep. We're having dinner here in town. I'll be home later. Love you, Mom."
"I love you too. I hope you have fun. Be careful and call if you need anything."
As I backed the car out of the driveway, I gave one last wave to Mom and Dad, who had now joined her at the back door. They stood there watching me with smiles on their faces as he wrapped her in his arms. It made me so happy to see how in love they still were after all these years. I hoped that I would someday find that kind of love. Suddenly, I was feeling the pressure of tonight's date.
I saw him the moment I rounded the corner. He had just stepped up onto the curb in front of the restaurant. I hoped that I wouldn't screw up my parallel parking. I took a few deep breaths and pulled my car to a halt. I didn't want to seem like a nervous Nelly, sitting there trying to get myself together for too long, so I forced myself out of the car right away and locked the door. I saw him watching me as I walked across the street, so I put as much sexy swagger into my stride as I could without looking like a runway model who was trying to work it too hard.
"Hi!" I said as I bounced up beside him.
"Hello. It's nice to meet you, Rose."
Oh damn, he has a sexy voice. An uncontrollable smile spread across my face as I took the hand he offered. "It's nice to actually meet you, too."
"Um...are you ready to go in for dinner?" he asked.
"Absolutely. Let's go." He hesitated for just a moment, and I found myself grinning from ear to ear. I took the lead and quickly pulled him into the restaurant before I embarrassed myself. The hostess took in an eye full of Christian before meeting my gaze. Who could blame her? He truly was drop-dead gorgeous.
"Table for two, under Christian," he said. That's when I noticed that he wasn't even giving the hostess a single glance. His eyes were sparkling and glued to mine.
My smile widened and I couldn't help but press my tongue to my teeth as I let out a slight giggle. I actually hated girls that did nothing but giggle in the presence of a guy, but oh my god–this guy had me wanting to laugh like a lunatic as we ran through fields of daisies. I was that ridiculously happy.
Once the hostess led us to our booth, which was perfectly situated in the quiet part of the restaurant, I thanked her and slid into my seat. Christian smiled and thanked her as well, and received a beaming smile in return along with a "let me know if you need absolutely anything" parting comment to which he didn't even respond.
"Would you like some wine?" he asked.
"I would love some, except for the fact that it might get you thrown in jail."
"Why would it get me thrown in jail? Are you a violent drunk who'd trash the place?" he teased.
"No, but I'm only twenty years old. Thanks for the offer though." I smiled back at him as he set the wine menu off to the side.
"Oh, well that explains it. Sorry. I shouldn't have assumed. It just feels like I already know you, so I didn't think to ask your age."
"It's okay. Now that you know how old I am, it's your turn to share. How are old are you?"
"Yes, of course. Formal introductions. My name is Christian Royce, and I'm twenty-four years old. As you already know, I work at The Rising Pit. I'm their head of security."
"Cool. Well, I'm Rose Reynolds, and I'm a senior at Seela State University."
"Nice. What's your major?"
"History."
"What a coincidence. History was my favorite subject."
His dazzling smile and the sparkles in his eyes were pretty damn distracting, so I didn't even care if what he was saying was true or if he was just trying to score points. Either way, I was hooked.
"And I have to tell you, Rose, I'm a little nervous as I haven't been on a date in over five years." More like fifty. "And you are the first girl that I've ever taken to dinner."
"Really? Where did you take your other dates? The racetrack?" I tried to make light of the situation, but internally, I was doing my happy dance. He hadn't dated anyone in five years. Crap, I wonder if there's something wrong with him? "If you don't mind me asking, why haven't you dated anyone for five years?" Please have a good answer.
"No, I don't mind you asking at all. I guess you could say that I'm old fashioned and I am not in the habit of 'hooking-up', and everyone that I've encountered wasn't what I'd consider 'relationship material'. So, I've only had brief, non-serious acquaintances while I kept my eye out for the perfect girl." He winked at me as he picked up the menu. Definitely a good answer.
I couldn't help but bite my lower lip in an effort to keep the biggest, goofiest grin from taking over my face. "So, I guess you're saying that you asked me out because you think I'm 'relationship material'?" I hoped that I wasn't digging a hole for myself. Mom had warned me not to talk about too serious of stuff on our first date, but Christian wasn't the only one who felt like we'd known each other forever. I was so comfortable talking to him, and even the vibe he gave off was one of genuine kindness. So, needless to say, I was really liking how things were going so far.
"Yes. That's exactly what I'm saying. When I saw you looking out that window, you were so beautiful, that I just couldn't stop myself from asking you out. I would have come over myself, but since I was on duty, I had to get back inside. I just hoped that you would call, and I can't tell you how happy it made me when you did."
The waitress arrived just then asking if we were ready to order. Christian ordered a rare steak–eeeww, and I ordered the garlic shrimp fettuccine. After passing her the menus, we just sat quietly for a few moments staring at each other. I don't think I'd ever felt so connected and excited about someone before. I had told Mom that I wouldn't be jumping into the sack with anyone on the first date, but damn...if he asked, I don't think I would say no.
* * * * *
CHAPTER NINE
Making Plans
(Christian)
After Rose and I had gotten past the initial informatory part of our conversation, which included me giving her the fake last name that I used, and my estimated age, we ordered and then just sat there staring at one another. She was the most beautiful thing that I'd ever laid eyes on, and the moment I caught the scent of her excitement, I had to dig my nails into my thighs under the table in an effort to keep from drifting.
I would love nothing more than to bed this gorgeous woman tonight, but since that was never going to happen, I thought it best to change the subject...quick.
"So tell me more about yourself. What does your family do?"
I listened as Rose talked lovingly about her mother and father, sharing stories from her youth which painted a picture of the perfect family life. The conversation was great and we both enjoyed our meals, even though it was a bit of a struggle getting that steak down. It had been so long since I'd had to fake my way through an actual meal, but all in all things were going great.
As we finished our meal, I asked, "I wondered if you would like to take a walk with me after dinner? I have something that I'd like to show you just around the corner."
"Sure. That sounds great."
As I laid the money for the bill and tip on the table, I made sure that I was in complete control before reaching for Rose's hand for a second time. Again, she didn't hesitate to take mine in return. We walked out of the restaurant like a couple who'd been together for a very long time. It felt wonderful and perfect.
"I thought we could walk around the block and head to the festival in the park that's going on tonight."
"Oh, that's right. The movie festival. I love those. I wonder what's playing?"
I had already known what was playing, and as clic
hé as it was...I was interested to see what her reaction would be to Dracula. "I believe it's Dracula."
"Awesome! That's one of my favorites."
Damn, this girl just keeps getting better and better.
As we strolled around the block, we casually chatted about the town and how she had lived there her whole life. When we reached the park, we wove our way through the crowd and settled ourselves on a bench that was towards the back of the viewing area under one of the massive red maple trees. "Will this be okay? Can you see the screen from here?" I asked.
"Yes. It's perfect." And with that, she slid closer to me and I put my arm around her shoulders. It was that simple. Being with her felt so easy, and one-hundred percent right. This truly was the perfect night. We sat in silence as we watched the rest of Dracula under the full moon.
"I can't tell you how great this night has been for me." I tried not to sound like a complete lame-ass, but it was the truth. I hadn't experienced this kind of emotion in a long time, and I was pretty impressed with myself for keeping my drifting at bay throughout the evening. But...that all changed when she faced me and slipped her hand up around my neck as she leaned in to place her lips gently on mine.
I closed my eyes after making sure that hers were closed as well, and let the sensation of her soft lips penetrate my brain. I knew that anyone walking by right now would see the previously blonde guy suddenly sitting here now with dark brown hair, but honestly...I couldn't care less.
Since Rose had initiated the kiss, I let her control the intensity. It was sweet and gentle, but had the makings of something that could turn fierce in a heartbeat. I never wanted it to end. But as she pulled back, I had to use all my willpower to blank out my emotions to make sure she found me drifted back to my normal coloring.
"That was for the perfect evening." She smiled and shyly ducked her head as she reached for her purse and started to stand.
I wanted so much to pull her back down onto my lap and kiss her senseless, but I was extremely happy with how things were going tonight and I didn't want to risk ruining anything. "You're right...tonight has been perfect. So, I was wondering if you'd be open to making plans for later this week?" Please say yes.
"I'd love nothing more."
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CHAPTER TEN
He's the One
(Rose)
Once Christian and I had parted ways after reaching our cars and sharing a few more delicious kisses, I couldn't wait to get home to see if Mom was waiting up for me. I had to talk to her and see if the feelings I was experiencing were the same as what she had felt after meeting Dad. Because honestly, I don't think I had ever felt this way before.
I knew it had been kind of bold of me to lean in and kiss him first, but I just couldn't resist. The whole evening had been so amazing, and while sitting there in his arms at the park, I really did have the overwhelming feeling that we'd been together for years. So...I did it. I leaned in and gently placed my lips to his, and it was incredible.
As I pulled the car into the garage, I noticed a warm light radiating from the den window. Yes, Mom's still awake. After tiptoeing in my open-toed shoes through the dew covered grass, I opened the back door and put my things down just as Mom stuck her head into the kitchen.
"So...how was it?" she asked, not even bothering with any small talk.
"Heaven. It was absolute heaven. Mom, he's sooooo nice, and gorgeous, and it felt like we'd known each other forever. I can't even explain it." I continued to gush about my feelings as we headed back towards the den. I flopped myself down onto the sofa, and met my mom's smile with one of my own. "I can honestly say that I've never been this happy in my life."
"Well, that's saying a lot, because as your mother, I can remember plenty of times that you've been extremely happy." She continued to smile as she made her way to join me on the couch. "I'm so thrilled you feel there's a connection there, but just be careful not to get your hopes up too high. Everyone always puts their best foot forward on a first date, but I say, until you hit the three month mark you don't really know someone's true personality."
"Well, we've already made plans to see each other again later this week. And if things continue to go like I think they will...not only will we reach the three month mark, but I could see three years, easy!"
Her eyes widened briefly and then a gentle and loving look settled on her face. "Rose, that's great. I'm truly happy for you, but again, please don't rush into anything, okay?"
"I promise I'll be careful. But for the first time in a long time, Christian has given me something else to be excited about besides school. It feels good. But don't worry, it's not like we're gonna rush off and get married or anything." I pushed off from the couch and began to make my way out of the den. "I love you, Mom. I'm gonna head to bed and hopefully have some juicy dreams about Christian."
She cupped her hands over her ears and shook her head. "TMI, TMI." Smiling as she followed me out of the den, she continued, "Alright. Sleep well, but tomorrow be ready to work. We're starting that project in your room, remember?"
"Are you seriously going to paint my ceiling black?"
"Yes. Yes I am. It's for a specific purpose though, so just keep your eye rolls to a minimum and wait and see what I have planned. You're going to love it, I'm sure."
Laughing, I waved my hand over my head as I headed down the hall. I wasn't kidding about wanting to have some good dreams about Christian, but what I truly wanted to do was get upstairs, change into my pajamas, crawl into bed, and give Christian a call. Our date may have been over, but he'd made sure to tell me that because of his work schedule he literally stayed up all night. So, we had made plans for me to call him as soon as I got settled at home. And since there was no way that I'd be getting him out of my head anytime soon, I figured I could spend the rest of my night talking to the man who would be inspiring my dreams instead.
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CHAPTER ELEVEN
Mom's Project
(Rose)
After spending a couple of hours talking to Christian, I finally reached the point of exhaustion. He must have heard it in my voice because he said, "I can tell you're getting tired. Why don't you lay that beautiful head down and get some rest? I'll call you after dark tomorrow, because during the day, I'm dead to the world. Goodnight, Rose. Sweet dreams."
And oh boy, did I have some sweet dreams. Christian and I in Paris looking at the lights of the Eifel tower. Christian and I kissing outside of a Scottish castle. Christian and I riding in a gondola in Venice. I didn't want to leave this glorious dreamscape, but with Mom rummaging around outside my bedroom door, my fanciful dreams were quickly put to an end. As I gradually woke up, all I could think about was that I would be seeing Christian in just one more day. Thank god for small miracles.
"Good morning," Mom announced as she cracked open my bedroom door. I sat up, propping myself up on the pillow. I watched her as she dragged some supplies in with her. Black paint, rollers, drop-cloths, and a large bag from the metaphysical store in town. Now I was getting nervous. Mom's project was about to hit full-swing.
"So we're really doing this?"
"Yes ma'am. But painting the ceiling's not all!"
"Oh goody...there's more." I rolled my eyes and gave her a goofy smile. "Would you like to elaborate?"
"Of course." After setting down her supplies, she spun around in a circle, her arms held wide. "We're going to create a nighttime wonderland."
I watched her turn around with her beautiful smile and sparkling eyes, and I just couldn't say no. I loved when Mom got one of her crafty ideas, but I wasn't exactly following what she had in mind. "Want to elaborate...more?"
She took a seat on my bed and continued. "We're going to paint your ceiling black, and then hang these beautiful crystals from it." She dug out a handful of crystal stars and moons in all sizes and colors and laid them across my bed. Then with a spark of wonder in her voice, she continued, “It will be beautiful, and you’ll feel like you’re sleep
ing under the twinkling stars every night.”
I lifted one of the crystals in my hand and let in dangle in the sunlight. The rainbow it cast onto my wall was stunning, but I wasn't convinced it would have the same effect at night. But knowing my mother as I did, there would be no stopping her. "Cool idea. Let me get dressed and we can get started."
"I'll head down and make us some breakfast first, okay?" She breezed out of my bedroom, not waiting for a reply.
As I headed towards my bathroom, I noticed the little red light on my cell was blinking. I had a message. I felt the butterflies starting to stir again as I grabbed the phone. I hope it's a message from Christian. And it was. He had sent me a text just before dawn that read, "Thinking of you. Talk to you soon. Have a good day at school tomorrow, and call me as soon as the sun goes down. Love, Christian."
Love, Christian. I can't tell you how long I stared at that phrase. Feeling suddenly energized, I threw on my artsy coveralls and put my hair up in a quick ponytail, and then jogged down the stairs. "Smells good, Mom."
"I made cinnamon toast, bacon, and eggs." She smiled as she sat the plate in front of me and then grabbed one of her own, piled high with the same yummy goodness. "So, I heard you on the phone last night. Just couldn't get enough of Christian from your date, I take it?"
I wiggled my eyebrows at her as I took a bite out of my toast.
She laughed and shook her head. "Oh...young love. I remember it well."
We continued talking about boys and the gushy feelings they gave us while we finished breakfast, and then headed back to my room to start painting.
It had taken us most of the day just to paint the ceiling. Not because it was a particularly large room, but because we sucked at painting. I kept hitting the walls and having to do touch-ups, and even though Mom was in awesome shape, we had to take a lot of breaks because our arms kept getting tired from painting above our heads. Eventually we finished and decided we would head out for a late lunch while the paint dried. So, after we both showered and attempted to wash off all the black specks that decorated our hair and skin, we headed to the local pizza place.
