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“So interesting.” I have zero interest in finance or investments. The only numbers I care about are thread counts and stitch gauges.

“It is, yes.”

The waiter brings Benjamin’s drink, fills up my glass with wine and as soon as he walks away, Benjamin leans in. Aren’t we eating something?

“Between you and me, the real money is in real estate. Stocks and bonds are alright, but property is where it’s at for long-term wealth.” He winks as if imparting insider knowledge only he possesses.

“I’ll keep that in mind.”

“In fact, I closed a new development project last week. Luxury condos right at the park. I can see the commissions rolling in already.”

He prattles on about capital gains and securities while I nod along, already tuning out his self-important description of his oh-so-impressive job and giving the occasional ‘uh, huh’. This guy is so wrapped up in himself that I doubt he would notice if I straight up walked out at this point.

What’s more interesting are the tablecloths here. They have tiny flowers embroidered along the edges. It’s cute. We should get similar ones for our apartment.

I should text Mary and Lil to stage an emergency call for me.

My fingers tap against the side of my wineglass, a dull rhythm to match the droning of my date’s voice. Benjamin, a name I’ll surely forget by tomorrow.

My phone buzzes against the tablecloth. Without missing a beat, I swipe it up and glance at the screen.

Mr. Answer Me: You’ve left me no choice.

I peer up from my phone only to blink at Elijah, who makes his way towards our table and never breaks eye contact. He raises an eyebrow as if to say, ‘I told you so.’

“Evening.” Elijah opens up the button of his suit jacket, stopping at our table. Why does he always have to wear suits and look damn handsome in them?

“I told you not to avoid me. You should’ve listened.”

“Who says I’m avoiding you?” We both know it’s a lie.

“Benjamin, was it?” Elijah addresses my date without so much as a glance at him, his eyes on me. “It’s time for you to leave.”

Benjamin’s eyes widen in shock, hesitating. As Benjamin doesn’t move, Elijah leans down to whisper something into his ear.

My mouth drops open. What exactly is happening right now?

“I totally forgot. I have an early morning tomorrow. See you. No, I… goodbye.” Benjamin scrambles from his seat and scurries away without so much as a backward glance. Of all people, Mr. Elijah Milton has sent my date packing.

“What in the world was that?” I glare up at him, his eyes glinting with satisfaction.

“You can thank me later, my gem.” He takes Benjamin’s now vacant seat across from me. “That guy is a prick, but I don’t have to tell you that, right?”

“I didn’t ask you to intervene. I was handling it.”

“Oh really? You looked bored out of your mind. Besides, I’m a better match for you.”

“He is nice.” I adjust the napkin on my lap.

“Nice doesn’t cut it though, does it?”

“Amazing.”

Elijah raises an eyebrow. “Yeah, what does he do?”

“Finance.”

“Why are you fighting us so much?” He reaches across the table, his hand covering mine. The warmth of his touch makes my pulse quicken.

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