by Harlow James
I let out a sigh. “Yes, I am. Sorry, I don’t know why I was being so rude.”
His hand reaches over, intertwining our fingers together on my thigh, the feel of our hands touching making my stomach turn a bit, whether it’s out of nervousness or excitement, I’m not sure. “It’s okay. Just try to relax. I know I’m nervous about this date too. It’s been a while for me,” he chuckles. “What about you? When’s the last time you went on a date?”
I turn to gaze out the window, contemplating my answer. The last time I even attempted to go on a date was the night Mike stood me up five years ago. Before that, my boyfriend in high school was the last boy I allowed to take me out, which didn’t even constitute real dating in my opinion. I opt for half honesty in my answer.
“Well, it’s been five years since I’ve accepted a date, but really…. I don’t know that I would admit to being on an actual date before. Ever.”
He turns to me with wide eyes and tall eyebrows. “What? Really?” I nod, looking away sheepishly.
“Hey, don’t hide. It’s nothing to be ashamed about. In fact, I’m honored now that I get to be the one to take you out on your first real date then,” he smirks, tightening his hold on my hand as we continue to drift down the road towards Lincoln, a drive I’m all too familiar with. “And I hope it lives up to the hype.” He brings my hand up to meet his lips, pressing a light kiss to my knuckles before returning our clasped palms to my thigh. The warmth of his skin puts me at ease a bit as we finish the drive to the restaurant.
Taking the exit off the highway, Ben weaves through town until we arrive at an old house which apparently is now a five-star dining establishment. Billy’s Restaurant, also known as the Noble-Dawes House, resembles an old colonial home from the 1800s. The olive-green wood paneling covers the exterior while dark brown eaves and trim frame the windows and doors. Ben finds a parking spot in the lot next to the house, exiting his side before opening my door for me and grasping my hand as I stand from my seat. I’ll give him credit, at least his manners are up to par. He extends his arm to me, folded at the elbow, as I weave my arm through, and he guides me up to the house.
“Have you ever been to Billy’s Restaurant before?” He asks as we make our way up the porch stairs. Ben opens the heavy wooden door for me before guiding me through with his hand on my lower back.
“No, I haven’t. But what a place,” I whisper as I take in the view of the room. A small doorway behind the hostess station leads into an open room full of tables covered in white linens, soft candlelight flickering atop each surface. Chandeliers hang from the ceiling, complete with large wooden beams to support the structure. It screams rugged romance and is far fancier than any restaurant I have ever experienced in my life.
Ben Paxton is used to this kind of establishment. His family owns Paxton Timber, a prospering lumber company in Lincoln, so as we follow the hostess to our table, we’re greeted by several people who recognize him. He introduces me as his date, the way a gentleman should, but the unwarranted attention doesn’t sit well with me. I see the shift in his demeanor, his sweet and confident side transforming into cocky and arrogant. I feel like more of a prize than a person; the uneasiness taking over my body before we finally sit down at our table and I feel like I can breathe again.
“Are you okay? You look a little flushed?” Ben reaches across the table for my hand, clasping his fingers around mine while I steady my breathing.
“Yeah, I’m fine. This place is beautiful. And you seem to know quite a few people in here.” I play off my apprehension, reaching for my napkin and placing it over my lap.
“Yeah, part of the hazards of being my father’s son. In a few more months though, I’ll be in his shoes.” He leans back in his chair, oozing self-assurance as he unbuttons his jacket and takes a drink from his water glass.
“His shoes? Are you going to take over the company?” I realize at this moment there is so much I don’t know about Ben, information I should really find out, not only as his date but also as his friend.
“Yeah. The agreement was that when I turn twenty-five, the company would go to me, my dad stepping down to Vice President so he’s still involved, but I would be President finally and running things.” The smug smile that casts over his face concerns me as he continues. “Dad wanted me to work menial jobs, appreciate the value of a dollar before I was handed the reins to a multi-million dollar company. And I respect that. But I also can’t wait to be in charge, be the one making orders instead of taking them.” His speech is interrupted as the waiter comes by to take our drink order. I rarely drink much, but Ben suggests a bottle of red wine that would complement our meals, so I accept.
I never got the idea before that Ben felt his work was beneath him. But then again, I haven’t been paying attention to him at all up until last week. He obviously feels he deserves the position in his father’s company, but whether he’s earned it is questionable.
After we place our orders, he turns the tables on me. “So teaching, huh? What made you decide that you wanted to do that for the rest of your life?” His question is harmless, but there’s an underlying tone of inconsideration. I take a sip of wine before I lay it all out there.
“Well, I knew I wanted to be a teacher since I was five. I remember the first day of kindergarten, how I fell in love with the classroom, the books, the limitless knowledge to be acquired. As I got older, I became a tutor for kids who needed help and seeing the look on their faces when they finally understood something after being confused for so long was the most exhilarating experience. Seeing the lightbulb come on for someone else is life-changing and a feeling I knew I never wanted to live without, so I quickly knew that teaching was what I was meant to do with my life.”
Ben smiles over at me across the table. “You light up when you talk about it, so it must be important to you. I have to say, I never thought watching someone speak so eloquently about their job would be a turn on,” he chuckles before taking a sip from his glass of wine as our salads are placed in front of us.
I laugh back at him. “Thanks, I guess? I just can’t wait to make my own safe haven for kids to learn in, to feel vulnerable and secure enough to make mistakes and challenge themselves. I have so many ideas already.”
We continue talking about my impending job, the decorative ideas I have for my classroom, and what grade I plan on teaching. Ben listens intently, nodding and probing me with questions when appropriate, even offering to help me set up my room when the time comes. Our meals are served when he starts to tell me more about how he enjoys working at the bar and Mic’s garage occasionally, even though he can’t wait until he doesn’t have to get his fingers dirty anymore. I remain open to the idea of more with him, a successful businessman with poise and refinement, but there’s a nagging feeling in the back of my mind the entire evening that I can’t seem to shake.
“That was delicious, Ben. Thank you. I don’t think I’ve ever indulged in a meal like that in my life!” I exclaim as I literally throw in the towel, the napkin from my lap making its way on top of my plate.
He chuckles at me while he follows my lead and places his napkin similarly. “You’re welcome. Thank you for the company. A fine meal is meant to be enjoyed with a fine woman.”
I look down at my lap, trying to hide the blush overcoming my cheeks. I’ve never had a man be so open about his attraction to me. I mean, I’ve had to fend off creeps here and there, but never a guy who was genuinely interested in me and could compliment me with finesse.
“Well, it was very enjoyable,” I reply with a smile, motioning to stand and gather my clutch. “I’m going to use the ladies' room really quick. I’ll meet you up front.” He nods and stands as I leave, the heat of his gaze on my backside forces me to keep my head held high and fight the urge to turn around and catch him ogling me.
Ben’s head pops up from his gaze on the ground as I make my way back to him by the front door, his smile genuine, his eyes blazing with allure. He likes me. Just me, plain o
ld Victoria Baker, the daughter of a factory worker and a grocer, the much older big sister, and the first-grade teacher-to-be. I feel wanted, desired, and the feel of his hand on my back as we make our way back to the car tells me he’s serious about letting me know that.
After we get situated inside and Ben finds the highway again, our evening turns quiet while soft country music wafts through the speakers of his car. “Do you listen to music?” Ben breaks the silence as he turns the volume down so we can talk.
“Oh yeah. I’m a big country music buff. My mom and dad used to play all the old stuff while I was growing up, but I’m into the newer stuff more now. In fact, I think I might look up a concert or two this summer I’d like to go to. I haven’t been to one since high school.” I shake my head at the thought of all the things I’ve sacrificed while earning my degree. The idea of going to a concert warms my heart and instantly puts a grin on my face.
“Well, let me know what you decide and if you’d like the company. I’d love to join you if you’re up for it.” Ben reaches for my hand again, this time I make the move to intertwine our fingers while we finish the drive back to Hopetown.
When we arrive at my house, Ben kills the engine, then turns to me in his seat. “I had a really nice time tonight, Vic. You are beyond beautiful, smart, and funny. I was serious about the concert, too. But besides that, I would love to take you out again sometime.” His thumb caresses the back of my hand while he anxiously awaits my answer. I know I enjoyed our time tonight too, and surprisingly, I do want to go out with Ben again. But I also know that I need to be honest with him about my dating predicament.
“I had a wonderful evening with you too, Ben. And yes, I would love to do this again. But I need to be honest with you about something.” I stare into his deep blue eyes that instantly filled with concern.
“Okay,…” he trails off, expecting a bomb I’m about to drop on him.
“I’m dating someone else right now, too.”
Ben stares at me long and hard for a moment before a small smile tips up on the corner of his mouth. “Is that right?” He chuckles. “Who?”
I take a deep breath before answering. “Michael Kelley. He approached me after you did the night of my graduation party and insisted I let him take me out as well. I’m sorry, but I figured it was only fair since you kinda beat him to the punch.”
Ben shakes his head while smiling. “Of course he asked you out. Anyone would be an idiot if they didn’t see the way he’s looked at you for years. But Vic, I’m serious about you too, please believe that.” He’s pleading now, his entire demeanor shifting from playful disbelief to stern honesty. “I wouldn’t have asked you out if I was only interested in one thing. I like you and I understand that you’ve been putting off dating for years to focus on your goals.” He takes a deep breath before continuing. “So, if you feel you need to date us both for a while to make an informed decision, then I fully support that.” His confidence and reassurance are so sexy at this moment. I have to force myself not to launch my body at him and cover his mouth with my lips.
“Are you sure? I don’t want to make you uncomfortable, but I do like you Ben. More than I thought I would honestly,” I joke, but look up at him beneath my eyelashes in suggestively.
“I’m glad to hear it, Vic.” He leans into me over the center console, my body instinctively meeting him halfway before his lips lightly brush mine in a soft and reverent kiss. Surprisingly, I find myself pushing forward to deepen the caress, but Ben doesn’t shift his pressure to meet me. Instead, he pulls back to keep it sweet and innocent. No tongue, no heavy petting. Just a sensual meeting of lips, touching and nipping in a kiss that leaves me breathless despite the lack of exertion.
When we part, my eyes flutter open to see Ben smiling down at me, my face instantly mirroring his. “Good night, Vic. I’ll call or text you soon.” He kisses the tip of my nose before I find the door handle and exit his car, slowly walking up the pathway to my front door, turning around to offer a polite wave as Ben drives down the driveway and onto the road. I let out a rush of air, a breath I didn’t realize I was holding as I ponder what just happened.
This man that I had never given any attention to whatsoever, just made my heart flutter in my chest and my stomach flip in a matter of hours. Is this what dating is supposed to feel like? If so, now I can see the appeal. I make my way inside, change into pajamas and clean my face off before brushing my teeth and falling into bed. A smile rests on my lips as I succumb to sleep, but the dream I have isn’t of Ben. It’s of the man who’s yet to take me on a date. The fact that Mike was the man in my dreams awakens the nagging feeling I had all evening. I feel like this game is just getting started.
Chapter 8
Mike
The week crawls by even though I’m busier than hell. Order after order has come in, the business welcome, of course. My assistant Tim has been working overtime with me since he’s on summer vacation from school, which has helped the completion of the orders in record time. Tim is going into his senior year of high school but needed a job to help his family financially around the time I started my business. I offered to teach him the ropes, slowly showing him the techniques of woodworking in the evenings after school. He’s caught on quick and now the kid has outworked me some days. His help has been monumental in my business, and I’ve paid him handsomely for his dedication.
Despite the hustle of finishing pieces all week, the business still hasn’t distracted me enough from the anticipation of my date with Victoria. When I called her to make plans, she told me she was going on her date with Ben that week. I’m not going to lie. That evening I was a mess, fuming and taking out my aggression on wood as I thought of the bastard touching her, kissing her, and making her laugh. I’ve known Ben for years; we’ve been friends and have spent many a night drinking and hanging out together. He’s a good guy as far as I can tell. But the moment he asked out Victoria Baker, he became enemy number one on my list.
I’ve struggled with knowing how far Ben would be willing to go to win her over, his money a tool he will use in his favor for sure. But I have an edge that he doesn’t. I have Victoria. She may not be mine officially, but she has been mine for years. I know her, inside and out. I know how she appreciates the simple things in life, like her US Weekly magazines and cool ranch Doritos. I know she would do anything for her friends and her sister. I know how she lights up when she talks about teaching and having children of her own one day. I know her love of country music and her unhealthy obsession with reality television. I know that she’s the most beautiful, thoughtful, and intelligent woman I’ve ever met. And now, I just need to show her that I know all those things.
“So tonight’s the night, huh?” Tim yells across the shop, the scratch of sandpaper on the wood just loud enough to warrant the volume of his voice.
“Yup. And it's gotta be perfect.” Tim has become my confidant about Vic, more so out of obligation than necessity. When he saw me lose it on a table that was half finished the night of her date with Ben, I felt compelled to explain my behavior. Turns out, we have something in common. Tim has been pining after Mary Beth, a girl his age in school for years, never mustering up the courage to ask her out. We’ve spent several nights since then discussing strategies, ultimately both deciding we should see how this thing pans out with Vic before he follows my lead and we both end up miserable.
“So where are you taking her again?” Tim throws the sandpaper in the trash as he saunters over to the wash bin to clean his hands.
“Becker’s food truck over in Littlerock. My brother reminded me of it the other night, and I know Vic loves it there. It’s a bit of a drive, so I know she doesn’t go often. I’m gonna woo her with some of her favorite food, spin her around on the dance floor, and hopefully secure a kiss before the night is over.”
“I’m rooting for you, Mike. You deserve to be happy and finally get your girl. Hell, if you get your happy ending, that means I might have a chance at mine too.”
“I’m gonna try, buddy. I’ll let you know how it goes. Thanks again for your help this week. There’s no way I could have completed those orders without your help.”
“No problem, Mike. I appreciate this job more than you know. Dad’s hours got cut, so the extra money has been a blessing. I’ll see ya Monday then.” Tim grabs his keys from the table by the door and ushers his way outside, leaving me alone to finish building this table in front of me before I clean myself up for my date. I’ve barely eaten today, nervousness ruling my stomach. I’ve waited years for tonight. I know what I feel in my heart. I just need to get Victoria to give in to what I know she feels too.
Hammering in the last nail, I stand back to admire my work. The legs on this farm table are strong and sturdy, just the way Mrs. Brady asked them to be. With four kids, she needs furniture that can take a beating.
I lock up the shop and make the small trek back to my house, the sound of gravel beneath my boots the only background noise besides the beating of my heart in my chest. The home on this property isn’t as big as the one I shared with my brother, but it still offers plenty of space for a single guy like me, and hopefully, my family one day.
Making my way over the fridge, I grab a bottle of water and down the entire thing in one attempt while staring out to the backyard through the kitchen window, admiring the view and everything I can see in my future. All I envision is Vic standing here one day, the same look of adoration on her face as she watches our children play on the grass. Her long black hair tied back off her neck while she cooks us dinner at my stove wearing nothing but my t-shirt. The arch of her back as I lay her on the counter and worship her while dinner burns on the stove. I want that all. And tonight is the beginning of the road I must travel on to get there. Here goes nothing.
