When we get back to the table, there’s an enormous, gleaming slab of chocolate cake waiting in the center of it. “That looks amazing,” I say. “I thought I was full, but I think I just found some more room.”
Levi pushes the plate toward me. “Ladies first.”
I have to admit it feels sort of intimate, the two of us sharing a dessert while Morgan and Bonnie watch. The cake is so rich and delicious, but I refrain from moaning or commenting much on its yumminess, because doing so feels faintly sexual and frankly inappropriate.
When it comes time to pay, Levi offers to foot the bill for all of us, but Morgan isn’t having it. Once the check is settled and we finally stand to leave, Bonnie reaches for me first.
“I’m so excited to have another girlfriend in town,” she says enthusiastically, hugging me as if we’ve known each other for years. “Call me when you want to go to the beach, OK?”
“I will,” I promise, taking a step back. I must say, I’m pleasantly shocked. I hadn’t expected to like Bonnie as much as I do. She’s a tad spacey at times, but she strikes me as the type of person who makes friends easily no matter where she goes.
Levi hovers just behind her, an amused smirk on his face. This time when he steps forward to hug me, it feels more platonic than it did before. I’ll admit I’m grateful for that - I have enough to explain to Morgan as it is.
Speaking of whom: “Nice meeting you,” says Morgan, extending his hand for Levi to shake.
“You, too. Glad to finally meet you.”
“We’ll have to have you guys over to our new place sometime,” Morgan offers. “Maybe we could grill out or something, if it isn’t too hot.”
“That sounds like fun,” says Bonnie. “Or, if it is too hot, you guys could come over to my place and we could go for a swim! My complex has an indoor/outdoor pool.”
When we reach the parking lot, Levi catches my eye one last time. With a note of sincerity he says, “Stay in touch, Hadley, OK?”
Seventh Wonder Page 25