by Bella Jewel
“Yes, please.”
He waves down a young waiter, who strolls over, smiling at the both of us. “Hi there, what can I get you?”
Jacob looks to me. “What would you like?”
“Just a vodka and lime, please.”
“And I’ll have a whiskey, neat,” he orders.
Double hot.
“Coming right up.”
When the waiter has gone, Jacob looks to me. “I’m sorry if I’m not doing very well at this. It’s the first time I’ve dated in a long time, I’m afraid.”
I exhale a little, fully relaxing into my chair. Maybe this wasn’t such a bad idea after all. “Me too, so if I screw up, forgive me.”
His eyes warm and his lips twitch. “I can’t imagine you’d screw up. You’re far too beautiful for that.”
I flush. “Thank you.”
He flashes me that all-American boy-next-door smile again. “What do you do for a living, Hartley?”
“Call me Hart, please, and I’m studying to be a midwife. I work as a waitress in between.”
His brows go up. “That’s very impressive!”
I flush. “Thank you. What about you? What do you do?”
“I’m an interior designer.”
My brows go up now too. “Wow, that’s inspiring. Does that keep you busy?”
“Extremely,” he smiles. “I currently have four jobs this week, and another three booked for next.”
The waiter returns with our drinks, and we both take sips before continuing. “How does that work?” I ask, curious. “Do they ask for your opinion and you design them something?”
He nods. “Sometimes, yes. I basically go in, speak with them, look at their house and the style and design, and then I create a plan on a program that I have on my computer. I show it to them, and then we adjust it to suit their needs.”
“Wow, that’s amazing. You must have a creative mind, to be able to come up with something like that. I’ve seen the work of some interior designers—it’s incredible.”
He looks flattered by my compliment and gives me a small, almost shy smile. “Yeah, I do have somewhat of a creative mind.”
Finally, a conversation that seems to be flowing well and a man who seems normal.
“Have you lived in Denver long?” Jacob asks, sipping his drink, scanning me with those great-looking blue eyes.
“All my life. I used to live just on the outskirts with my husband for ten years, but sadly he passed four years ago.”
Jacob’s eyes soften, and in a kind voice, he says, “I’m terribly sorry, that must have been awful. Can I ask what happened?”
“He was in a car accident,” I tell him.
“Again, I’m sorry. That would have been hard to deal with. Is that why you moved closer to town?”
I nod. “Yes, plus it was closer to the hospital where I do a good deal of my training and assessments. So it made more sense to be closer to the city.”
He nods thoughtfully. “Do you enjoy living close to the city?”
“Yes and no,” I admit. “Sometimes I find that I miss the quiet of living out of town, but I do enjoy the convenience.”
He nods in agreement. “And do you have any family close by?”
I shake my head. “No, my mother passed away before I lost my husband. My father is still alive, but is traveling overseas. I don’t have any siblings.”
Jacob nods. “I’m sorry to hear about your mother, but it seems like your father is doing well for himself.”
I smile. “Yeah, he’s happy. Good for him, too. I’m glad he’s out there getting the most out of his life. It’s so short, you know?”
“I absolutely agree,” he murmurs, sipping his drink again.
“What about you?” I ask. “Do you have any family?”
He shakes his head. “No, I lost my parents when I was younger. A tragic accident took them from me.”
My heart breaks for him. I know how losing someone unexpectedly feels. “I’m so sorry, that’s terrible.”
He shrugs. “On to more appealing subjects,” he laughs. “What do you like to do for fun? Any hobbies?”
That was a rapid change of subject. Now I’m curious about his parents, but I don’t say anything more because I don’t want to pry. And, from personal experience, I know what it’s like when people push you to answer questions about the loss of a loved one and you just don’t want to talk about it. So, I let it go.
“I wish I could say I had some crazy talent.” I roll my eyes. “But sadly, I’m just a plain Jane. I do love to read, though. I guess you could call that a hobby.”
“Certainly, and you’re more than a plain Jane.” He grins. “And I’m the same. I don’t have any hobbies, either.”
I laugh softly. “I guess we can be simple together.”
He chuckles. “I guess so.”
I spend the next three hours talking easily with Jacob. We have dinner and then he offers to drive me home. When we arrive at my apartment building, he’s a proper gentleman and keeps his distance, staying at the door and not asking to come inside, even though I’m sure he probably wants to. Part of me wants him to, even just for coffee, but I know that wouldn’t be right, for either of us.
I don’t really know him, and we had a great night. I think it’s best to leave it at that.
“Thank you for a wonderful night,” I say to him, leaning against the post just outside the front doors.
“You’re welcome. I had a great time. I’d love to see you again, if you’d like?”
I study him. Yes, I think I would like to get to know him better. He’s easygoing, handsome, and we had some good laughs. Even if it doesn’t progress further, I feel like even a friendship with this man would be worthwhile. Tonight is the first time in a long time I’ve enjoyed myself. I didn’t realize how much I was holding myself back until right now.
“I would like that.” I beam. “I’ll give you my phone number.”
I give him my phone number while he dials. He calls my phone, so I have his, and then tucks his phone back into his pocket. “I’ll give you a call in the morning,” he says, giving me a warm, friendly expression. “Thanks again, it was a great night.”
I nod, in full agreement. “Yes it was. Good night, Jacob.”
“Good night, Hartley.”
I walk through the front doors with a huge smile on my face.
Maybe Taylor was right.
Maybe this was a good idea after all.
FIVE
“You look beautiful, Hartley,” Jacob says, taking my hand and pulling me towards the movie theater.
We’re on our second “official” date. So far, things with Jacob are going really well. He’s kind, and funny, and he’s really easy to talk to. I find myself at ease with him, never feeling awkward or uncomfortable. Conversation flows naturally between us, and if there is ever a pause, Jacob quickly fills it with questions about my life. He listens when I speak, seemingly really taking in everything I’m saying.
That’s a nice feeling. Comforting.
Tonight he suggested a movie, and then dinner afterwards. I honestly can’t remember the last time I went to a movie. It was a long time ago, with Raymond, possibly at the beginning of our relationship. There is something strangely romantic about going to a movie with someone you like, feeling their hand brush yours, or their shoulder, as you sit close together.
“Thank you,” I smile at Jacob, taking in his clean cut look. “You look great, too.”
He’s wearing a pair of jeans, dark denim—they look new they’re in such good condition. Paired with the jeans, is a black button-down shirt that he has rolled at the sleeves. He’s got his brown hair brushed back neatly, and overall, looks incredible. I smooth my hands down my navy blue dress. It’s tighter at the top, but flares out at the bottom and rests right around my knees. I left my hair down for the occasion, and opted for just a little mascara.
As we approach, there is a group of teens sitting just outside the doors, laughing a
little too loud. I’d bet anything they snuck alcohol into whatever movie they just came out of. As we walk past, one of them stands and walks towards me. As she goes past, her shoulder bumps against mine, rocking me a bit. She’s a bigger girl, with cropped red hair.
“Watch where you’re going!” she snaps at me. “Bitch.”
We stop walking, and Jacob’s body goes tight. He turns slowly and stares at the girl, who is glaring at me, almost looking like she wants me to give her a reaction.
“Mind your manners,” Jacob says to her, his voice firm but not angry.
“I beg your pardon?” The teen throws back, putting a hand on her hip and getting the attention of the other teens who all look our way.
“I said,” Jacob says back calmly, “mind your manners. We’re here for a movie. We’re not bothering you. If you want to start something with someone, go and find another person. Do not speak to my lady like that.”
My heart flutters. He’s sticking up for me. It doesn’t matter who, what, where, when or why, if someone sticks up for you, and is willing to defend you, it feels damned wonderful. I think I fall for him just a bit more.
“What are you going to do about it?” the girl throws back.
Jacob stares at her, and there must be something in his eyes because she drops her hand from her hip. “I’m not going to do anything except take my girl inside and watch a movie with her. I’m simply telling you to mind your manners, it’ll do you good in the future.”
With that, he turns us and we walk into the theater. I look over at him with a huge smile on my face.
“What are you smiling at?” he asks, raising his brows.
“You defended me.”
He looks confused. “Of course I did. Nobody should speak to you like that.”
“I know, but … it just felt nice. Thank you.”
He leans in, brushing his lips across my forehead. “I’ll always defend a woman, Hartley. It’s the right thing to do.”
Swoon.
“Now,” he says, stepping back and clapping his hands together. “Are we doing action or romance?”
“I get to pick?” I tease.
He laughs. “You most certainly do. But only for this date, after that it’s my turn.”
He winks at me and I giggle. “Let’s do action.”
He raises his brows. “I like a girl who knows no boundaries.”
I smile. “What can I say? I like to live dangerously!”
“Indeed,” he murmurs. “Action it is.”
He buys our tickets, some popcorn and drinks, and finds a seat in the back row. Jacob hands me the popcorn and for a few moments, we just sit there in silence, snacking, and then he turns to me and says in a low voice, so as not to disturb anyone, “Look at that couple down in front.”
I look to where he points and see a couple practically chewing each other’s faces off, hands everywhere, limbs tangled. They’re young, maybe in their late teens.
“Oh to be that young again,” I laugh softly.
“The movie hasn’t even started yet,” Jacob chuckles.
“Looks like we’re in for an entertaining evening then.”
Jacob laughs, reaching over and taking my hand, making my heart flutter. “Looks like it.”
This is nice. Sweet. Comforting.
Yes.
Just what I need.
* * *
“Lena, hi,” I smile to my elderly neighbor as Jacob and I make our way towards my apartment later that night after we’ve gorged ourselves on pizza. I was already full after eating all the popcorn at the movie, but the moment I smelled the pizza, I had to have some.
I’m certain Jacob could roll me into my apartment if I let him.
“Hello, dear,” Lena smiles, walking towards us.
She was just about to enter her apartment, but stopped when I called out to her. She’s got to be in her late seventies, but she holds her own well. I always see her carrying her laundry or dragging her garbage out. Every time I offer to help her, she waves and does it herself. She’s stubborn, and she’s proud, and she’s one of the nicest old ladies I’ve met.
“Lena, this is Jacob.”
Jacob steps forward and extends a hand. “Wonderful to meet you. Hartley told me you make some pretty incredible cookies. I’d love to try them sometime.”
Lena flushes. “Oh, oh, that’s kind of her. I’ll drop some over next time I bake a batch, and she can share them with you.”
“That sounds wonderful.”
Lena looks to me. “How have you been, dear?”
“Very well, thank you.”
“I saw Taylor earlier, she was looking for you. I’m not sure if she’s still waiting or not. I told her I thought you might be out.”
Taylor has a spare key to my apartment. I wonder if she’s still waiting there? It’d be great to introduce her to Jacob, I’d like her to meet him.
“Thank you, I’ll go and see if she’s still there.”
“It was lovely to meet you Jacob, and Hartley, I’ll see you soon.”
“Bye, Lena.” I wave.
When she’s gone, Jacob and I continue down the hall. “She’s nice. Have you known her long?”
“Just since I’ve lived here. She checks on me often, even though it should be the other way around. She’s really kind, I like her a lot.”
“She is.”
We reach my apartment, which is just down the hall from Lena’s, and I unlock the door, going inside. As predicted, Taylor is sitting on the kitchen bench and her pretty blonde head swivels around when she hears us. Her eyes widen when she sees Jacob and she leaps out of her seat quickly. “Oh my god. I forgot you were on a date. I thought you might have just been out, so I waited. Oh gosh. I’m sorry.”
I laugh. “It’s okay. Jacob, I’d like you to meet my slightly crazy, slightly deranged best friend Taylor.”
Taylor’s cheeks flush, but she keeps that award-winning smile as she walks over and extends her hand to Jacob. “Hi, Jacob. You have me to thank for meeting this wonderful catch of a woman.”
Jacob laughs, shaking her hand. “Is that so?”
I flush. “Well, Taylor may have had a hand in pushing me back into the dating world.”
“Well, I’m glad she did and I was lucky enough to get picked,” Jacob says, winking at me.
“I like him already,” Taylor beams. “I won’t hold you two up, I’m sure you’d like some time alone.”
“Certainly not,” Jacob says. “Please stay. I’ll make some coffee if you guide me to where you keep everything.”
“Yes, stay.” I smile to my friend, thrilled that Jacob doesn’t mind hanging out with my best friend.
“Okay then,” Taylor says, giving me a thumbs-up when Jacob moves into the kitchen. “Swoon,” she whispers.
I look over at Jacob with a smile. “I know! He’s nice, isn’t he?”
“He is. And good-looking too!”
“Yeah, I like him.”
She pretends to give herself a pat on the back. “I knew I’d pick one good one. I’m happy for you, Hart. You look … carefree tonight. For the first time in a long time, and that makes me happy.”
I smile at my best friend. I might have been against her setting me up on blind dates, but I have to admit she’s right. I like Jacob, and I’d like to see where it goes, but more than that, I really like living a life outside of my job and my apartment. It’s been so long since I’ve let my hair down and gone out to have some fun. I needed it more than I thought I did.
“Yeah, thank you. I didn’t realize I needed it until I started doing it,” I admit.
“I’m glad, really I am.” She reaches over and squeezes my arm. “You deserve it.”
She’s right.
Maybe I do.
SIX
One Week Later
“So, it’s still going well between you and Jacob?” Taylor asks, strolling past my kitchen with a bag of muffins in her hands.
There is a little bakery just down the street tha
t makes the most amazing muffins. Taylor regularly stops by before work and will grab us a few along with their great coffee.
“Yeah.” I smile. “He’s really nice. We’ve been out four times now, but we talk every day. I think it’s going somewhere.”
Taylor places the bag down, and then claps her hands. “I knew it, I knew he was a good one. I really liked him. Say thank you to your bestie. If it wasn’t for me you’d still be sewing buttons on blouses.”
“Excuse me,” I say, wiggling a finger in her face. “But that is my favorite blouse.”
She rolls her eyes. “Yeah yeah, that’s what they all say. So, tell me more—has he kissed you yet?”
“A few times,” I say, beaming.
“But you haven’t … you know?” she questions.
“No,” I say quickly. “Gosh, I’m not in a hurry to go to that level. I really want to take this slow. I’m in no rush. I’m just enjoying it as it comes, without all the complications of moving it to the next level too quickly. It’s nice right now. Carefree and easygoing.”
“Oh I agree, and he really seems like a keeper. Did you ever hear back from any of the others?”
I frown. “Greg sent me a message once on social media—he must have looked me up—apologizing for the date. I never answered.”
Taylor scrunches up her nose. “He should apologize.”
A knock at my door distracts me from the conversation. I give Taylor a look, wondering who it might be, but she shrugs. I walk over, undoing the chain and pulling the door open to see Ace standing in my doorway, looking broody, and maybe a little sheepish. For a moment, I just stare at him with wide eyes. I have no idea why he’s here, but I’m shocked, shocked enough to have no words until he holds up a small jug.
“I need to borrow some milk.”
I blink.
Did he just say he needs to borrow … milk?
“You’re kidding me, right?” I say, snapping out of my trance. “Is this some sort of joke?”
He looks at me like I have something wrong with me, and mutters, “No. I have guests, and I ran out of milk. Lena doesn’t have any. That left you.”
Oh. So he knows Lena’s name, but never thought to come and get mine. Rude. Double rude.