*************
“I have never been this nervous about a date in my life man.”
“It will be fine. She agreed to dinner so she obviously wants to see you again, just relax dude.”
“You sure use that word a lot anymore. I hope it stays here in Omaha when we move.”
“Haha. I think it makes me look cool. Hip. You know, the girls all like the hipsters.”
“You’re terrible. You keep telling yourself that. I’m going to go meet a real woman with real taste. You have fun with your floozies.”
“Think you’ll be home tonight?”
“Don’t wait up on my account but I haven’t a clue what to expect. I don’t sleep around you know that. Who knows what tonight’s going to bring. See you when I see you.” I wink and walk out the front door full of fear and emotions I can’t explain.
Once I get to the Grant Hotel I stand in front of the elevator. It’s a little before seven and my stomach is doing flips. I see the numbers light up and count down from five. And it opens.
Holy shit. That is the most gorgeous woman I have ever laid my eyes on. Red dress and silver heels. Oh my goodness am I alive? As soon as she sees me she smiles and I know it’s real. I know this beauty before me is real. And here to meet me. Plain old me. I won’t complain.
“Audrey you look amazing. Absolutely beautiful.”
“You don’t think it’s too much? My sisters in law arranged for the dress and shoes to be delivered when I told them I had a dinner date.”
“Remind me to thank them if I ever have the pleasure of meeting them. You took my breath away.”
“Thank you Maysen you’re so kind.”
“Kind? No, I’m in awe. And a red blooded American male.” I whistle and twirl her around so I can get a better look at her. I feel as if I should be wiping drool off my face. This woman is spectacular.
“Well thank you. I’m not used to dressing like this so I’m a little uncomfortable. I feel like it’s too much.”
“No way. Are you ready to eat though? I’m ready to get you alone and away from all the male stares.”
“Oh Maysen you’re silly. No one is looking at me and I hope this dress allows me to sit down.” She laughs hesitantly and takes my arm as we walk towards the restaurant. I can’t help but look around at all the eyes staring at my date. My chest swells up with pride knowing she’s with me tonight. And I have intention of letting anyone else take her.
*************
“So, how long have you lived in Omaha?”
“I moved here to go to college and have been here since. So, almost 8 years I think? Makes me sound old putting it that way.”
“You’re not old. You definitely don’t look it.”
“Well thank you. How long have you been a teacher?”
“Almost 6 years. I went to college in Tulsa and went straight to teaching from there. I really love it. Seeing those little faces light up when they start to get it.”
“You really do love it. Your whole face lit up when you were talking about your job. That’s great that you found your calling.”
“You don’t like being a mechanic? That is what you went to school for right?”
“Yes, that’s what I went to school for but I also have my Bachelor’s in business too so one day I hope to own my own shop.”
“Here in Omaha?”
“I really don’t know. The right opportunity hasn’t presented itself yet. I don’t like the moron I work for now, but it’s a job ya know?”
“I do know. I am very blessed to have gotten the position I have now. The current second grade teacher decided not to come back from maternity leave so they asked me to stay on full time. Well, that was 5 years ago. I’m sure one day you’ll find your opportunity, as you put it.”
“Anyway, enough about work. When do you leave?”
“Tomorrow, late morning. I have a taxi coming to get me since my rental is broken. They wanted to give me another; I just refused and said I would get a cab. I don’t like driving in the big city. Scares me.”
“Small town girl huh?”
“Yes. That obvious huh?”
“You seem so sweet and innocent that you couldn’t have been corrupted by the big city. And of course you’re not liking to drive in traffic. Dead giveaway.”
“You have a good sense about me because I have always been the “good girl” and never been wild or reckless. I wouldn’t know what reckless was if it hit me over the head.” I smile and think how I would love to get wild and reckless with him. Audrey, my goodness what has gotten into you? Tight dress and champagne aren’t a good combination for you. I smile anyway knowing whatever happens in this town will stay here. It was a chance encounter twice; a third time would be ludicrous.
“Never been wild? Even in high school or college?”
“I have three older brothers so they never allowed me to be wild and crazy growing up. Then in college I was never able to get crazy either because I was studying so much. Maybe a little too much. Kind of an overachiever.” I shrug my shoulders knowing I’m exactly that.
“Three older brothers. I bet they were wild and crazy. Well, what would you like to do that’s so wild and reckless Miss Audrey?”
“Goodness I don’t have a clue. What do you wild and reckless people do to have a good time?”
Chuckling I hear him say, “I am the wrong one to ask. I work so much myself I don’t get wild and crazy. Whenever I have time it’s usually spent checking in on my Mom. It was just she and I growing up. She worked all the time and so did I to help out where I could.”
“Classic single mother story I take it? Works herself to the bone to provide for her children and the children in turn take care of her once they are grown?”
“Guilty. My Mom has been sick for so long now that I’ve really been thinking of moving her up here now. She isn’t as happy. Still tries to be independent.”
“She has always been independent and that would be taking it away from her. I can understand that.”
“Me too. It’s just hard having her so far away. Goodness how did we get onto another boring story? Back to your wild and reckless life.” He winks and lifts his glass to his lips. I see his throat move as he swallows. Good grief Audrey, not like you have never seen a man drink before. Get a grip on yourself!
“Would you like dessert ma’am?” I hear the waitress come and ask from beside me. Thankfully something to distract me from this beautiful man in front of me.
“I don’t know. What do you think Maysen?”
“How about two pieces of chocolate to go?” he says and wiggles his eye brows at me. What in the world does that mean? I feel the nerves start to bubble up in my stomach. This is all my fault. I was flirting and now he thinks I am that kind of girl.
“I don’t know about that I have to get up early tomorrow.”
“It’s only cake. You can take yours and I’ll take mine. No worries. No strings. Just cake.” He says smiling with a sparkle still in his eye. I can tell he’s trying not to smile.
“Ok that will work thank you. Dinner has gone so quickly. I think I inhaled it or someone else was stealing it off my plate.” I smile knowing that sounds so lame.
“Time flies when you’re having fun. At least that is what Mom’s has always told me. I have had a lot of fun talking to you tonight. Thank you for having dinner with me.” Maysen reaches across the table and takes my hand in his. His hand feels like it’s electrified as he rubs my mine with his thumb. I feel as if my hair should be standing on end from being electrocuted.
“I have had a wonderful time too. Just wish I weren’t leaving tomorrow.”
“Do you have to leave tomorrow? Or can you stay longer?”
“I have to get back. I have barely been home in the past week or so and have a ton of grading to do.”
“Sounds exciting.”
“I really don’t mind it. Overachiever, remember?”
“Funny. I like that about you though. You know what you
want and you work very hard to get it.”
“Too hard sometimes and the world goes on without me.”
“Would you like to go for a walk before turning in?”
“I would love to. Let me freshen up first and we can go.” I stand up to head to the bathroom but I guess the champagne has gotten to me more than I thought. I stumble a bit with these high heels on but Maysen easily stands up and slips his arms around my waist to steady me. I look up into his dark eyes and feel as if I’m falling into a bottomless pit. No end in sight.
“Are you ok? You’re going to kill yourself in those heels Audrey.” He sounds strained as he says that. His eyes are darkening even more with the desire he has while holding me so close. Neither of us pulls away instead we continue to stare at each other not saying a word.
After a few breaths I realize just what I must look like standing here in this getup with a man holding me in front of the whole restaurant. “I’m so sorry about that. I must have had too much champagne.”
“You had one glass Audrey, nothing to apologize for. I’m sorry I shouldn’t have held onto you like that. I thought you were going to fall so I just reacted. Again, I’m sorry.” He lets go and backs up leaving me still standing here like an idiot lusting after him.
“No, without you I would have fallen and probably broken my ankle or my neck. Thank you. I’m going to try to make it to the restroom now. Excuse me.” And I practically run to the bathroom. I’m so humiliated I can’t stand it.
As soon as I get the door shut I dial Karlie’s number. “Audrey, what’s wrong? What’s happening?”
“Karlie, I should kill you two. I have about killed myself in these contraptions you call shoes several times already tonight!”
“What did Prince Charming think of the dress? Besides, you gave me a dress close to that for my bachelorette party!”
“I think he appreciated it. His eyes about bugged out of his head.”
“Mission accomplished then! That was the point Audrey!”
“Yes but now what do I do? He wants to go for a walk but I’m scared. I don’t know what to do in this situation.”
“You do know how to walk right? Last I knew a walk meant a walk goofball.”
“Yes, but after that silly. What do I do after we get back? What if he asks to come to my room or something? What do I do then?”
“Good grief Audrey, I’m not going to map the night out for you. What you do with the night is up to you. Be brave and do something you would never do. You might be surprised with yourself and enjoy every minute of it.”
“I could be over reacting too right? Maybe he really is just wanting to take a walk right?”
“Yes Audrey, it could be just that. But by the way you said he liked the dress I’m sure walking is not all that’s on his mind. Just roll with it. Go with the flow and take your queues from him.”
“That’s what I’m afraid of Karlie. I have never just been with a man without being in a relationship for a while first. I don’t want Maysen to think I’m easy or anything.”
“He won’t Audrey. If he has learned anything about you it’s that you’re a wholesome small town good girl. He likes that about you I’m sure.”
“Just go with the flow huh? I’ll try to do that but Karlie, stay by the phone. I might have to call you.”
“Don’t keep Prince Charming waiting any longer. Go. Do something daring. Live your life Audrey. We love you.”
“Ok. Bye.”
“Call me as soon as you get in tonight. I’ll be waiting.”
“I’m sure you will.” I laugh and hang up the phone trying to calm the tidal wave of fear that’s welling up inside my stomach. I take a deep breath and hold it for a few seconds. Letting it out I open the bathroom door and pat down my dress to ensure it’s covering the key body parts still.
On shaky legs I walk to the front of the restaurant where I see Prince Charming, as Karlie called him, waiting for me. His eyes are glued on me as if I were a special prize he couldn’t wait to win. Tidal wave number two comes rolling in. Oh boy.
6
“What’s wrong? Am I trailing toilet paper from my shoe or what?” I say turning to make sure I don’t actually have the toilet paper coming from my shoe. That would be embarrassing. Like standing here in this getup isn’t embarrassing? Audrey shut up.
“N-n-nothing is wrong actually. You are gorgeous. I can’t believe you’re leaving with me. Hell even talking to me.” I can see a slight reddening come across his handsome face. How sweet.
“Oh stop it. I’m not comfortable talking about this. Are you ready for that walk now?” He extends his elbow and I place my hand just inside the fold. He pulls me closer to his side and I visualize sparks shooting between our bodies. I roll my eyes and shake it off. I’m getting delusional now. Snap out of it Audrey, good grief.
“Have you seen the pond and trails at the park across the street from the hotel?”
“No, but I would love to.”
Maysen directs us in the direction of the park entrance and I see there are many couples inside that seem to have the same idea we do. Some might have a little bit more on their minds at the moment than we do. Scratch that maybe it’s the same. They look a lot more comfortable with the idea than we do. Oh brother Audrey, you would think you’ve never been with a man before. You’re acting like a teenager with your first crush.
“Can I hold your hand? If that’s not too much to ask.” I nod and allow his big fingers to slide between mine, every last hot one. The moment his touch mine, I feel my temperature spike again. What is this, tidal wave twenty?
We walk on the path for a few minutes both silent and afraid to speak. I don’t want to say anything stupid enough to make him change his mind about spending time with me tonight. I’m good at that. Aiden and Aaron always made fun of me as a kid because I could trip over my own words more often than not.
“You’re quiet. Are you ok?” He squeezes my hand and I feel another spark shoot through me. This man’s simple actions are driving me insane. I don’t know how to deal with this new situation.
“I’m just fine. You fine?” Dummy that sounds intelligent. “I mean, are you ok? You’re quiet too.”
He smiles a gentle and warm smile but stops in front of me and takes both hands in his. I look up into those amazing eyes and can’t help but look at his perfectly formed lips. Out of instinct I think I licked my own lips as I did so because his eyes slipped down to them. His smile fades just as he realizes we are both thinking of the same thing. A kiss. He leans down and hesitates just before his lips touch mine. I close my eyes and lean the rest of the way to meet him.
Electricity! Heaven! I think I’m going to faint. Holy crap!
**************
Audrey’s lips on mine, the most perfect feeling in the entire world. I have never felt so much emotion and electricity kissing any other woman. Duh, it’s never been this beautiful, intelligent and HOT woman in front of me.
I can feel her sway as if she’s losing her footing so of course I did what every man would do; I wrap my arms around her waist to give her my support. Any man would do that right? Who cares you fool, you like this girl, go for it! If she pulls away, she pulls away and you’ll know where you stand. You have to try or you’ll never know again.
Hallelujah she didn’t pull away; instead her hands are on my chest now. They’re making their way to my neck. That simple action makes me feel as if I’m floating on air and the world has slipped away except for me and Audrey. Oh good grief you idiot you sound like a girl. But it’s true this feels like Heaven.
After Audrey’s hand snake behind my head and fill with my hair and pull me closer to her, I lose my self-control. Completely lose myself.
Running my tongue along her lips I feel them part and her own tongue come out to meet mine. Tasting her sweet mouth and the wine from dinner mixed in there sends my pulse in over-drive. More than it already was I guess. I didn’t realize it could beat any faster, but it just might beat out
of my chest.
She shivers and lets out a slight moan that my tongue takes as a go-ahead and delves into her waiting mouth. Her tongue meets mine taste for taste. I tilt her head to give gain better access and hear myself let out a matching sound. I could stand here in this park with this woman for the rest of my life.
Park. Park. You’re in a public park pawing at this poor woman you moron! I retract my rogue tongue and tighten my grip on her to allow my brain to start working again. It’s as if I’m swimming in emotions I never knew were possible.
“What’s wrong? Did I do something wrong? I’m sorry I shouldn’t have done that.” She pulls away and rights her shirt starting to redden with embarrassment. She’s fumbling to keep her attention away from me.
“Audrey, I’m so sorry I just did that to you in public. That was far beyond uncalled for. I let myself get carried away and should never have done that. Please don’t think there was anything you did wrong. I am completely to blame.” I reach up and rub my hand along her cheek. My heart lets out its own sigh as I do so. This woman is just so amazing and she sets my body on fire.
“Don’t apologize, I was there too. I’m as much to blame. I did love every minute of it.” She reddens and looks at the ground again.
I lift her chin up so that her eyes look straight at me and I say, “That was the most memorable kiss I have ever had. With anyone. Ever. I wouldn’t mind doing it again. But preferably away from public eyes.” I smile hoping to ease her embarrassment and let her know I’m serious.
“Would you like to come back to my room for a drink?” I think I must be hearing things now. There is no way she just asked me back to her room. No way.
*************
Third Time's a Charm- Book 3 of the Colvin Series Page 3