Page 28 of Only Ever You

We’re just going to dinner—I’m hoping that’s just the start. For so long I had this dream in my head that Deacon would fall madly in love with me and we’d live happily ever after.

I’m not so sure that’s what will happen, but even going to dinner seems like a step in the right direction.

Eventually, I settle on a simple blue dress. It’s not too tight or revealing—although something like that would be tempting—but it still shows off my best assets.

Is this a date?

I feel like I should know the answer to this, and yet uncertainty still hangs in the air. Deacon’s showing all the signs of being interested, but he also seems interested in renewing our friendship. But then there are the things he’s said to me, and the anger at me hanging out with other men.

My stomach twists.

Hopefully tonight will give me the clarity I want.

A knock stirs me out of my thoughts, and I rush to the door.

Deacon stands on the other side, and I could swoon just looking at him.

He’s not dressed all that different from work in dress pants and a dress shirt, but he’s not wearing a tie and his sleeves are rolled up, showing off his impressive forearms—my weakness.

I let out a sigh before I can stop it.

He smiles. “Hey. Are you ready?”

I nod. “Just let me grab my purse.” Nerves eat at my stomach, but I make my way through the living room and grab what I need.

Deacon steps inside. “So, this is where you live?”

“It’s not much, but it’s mine.”

He frowns. It’s tiny, but in a big city it’s what I could afford on my own. I did my time flatting with others in Wellington, and while it’s still always an option here, I just wanted to be independent. My savings paid the deposit and the first few weeks while I was looking for work, but now I’m earning enough to stay here.

“You look beautiful by the way.”

I don’t need to check the mirror to know I’m blushing. “Thank you.”

“Shall we?” He offers me his arm, and I take it.

“Where are we going?”

“It’s a surprise.”

He leads me out to his car. It’s a late model Audi, and as I sink into the passenger seat, I let out a sigh. It’s so much better than the old piece of crap that I inherited from Lucas. To be fair, Mum and Dad offered to upgrade it when I went to university, but I opted for them helping me out with the rent instead.

“I’m glad it’s Friday. It’s been a long week,” I say.

Deacon shoots a glance at me as he pulls out into traffic. “I hope we’re not overworking you.”

I grin. “No. Not at all. It’s great. I’m really looking forward to working with Mallory and Simone on this launch party. We’ve been getting on really well.”

He relaxes back into his seat. “I’m glad to hear it. I knew you’d fit right in.”

Before I know it, we’re heading into the city and parking near the viaduct. It’s Friday night, and the place is buzzing with people everywhere.

After we’ve exited the car, Deacon takes my hand in his and raises it to his lips. “They do the best pasta here. I hope you’re hungry.”

I grin. “Sounds great.”

We walk toward the restaurant, and Deacon holds my hand tight. Excitement races through my veins. This is really it. I’m on a date with Deacon Miller.

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