Page 41 of Burned By Fire

19

SOL

Sunday, June 5th

Patiently, I wait in Antonio’s for Ember to arrive. Instead of a single rose, I have a bouquet and a box of fancy chocolates. The same waitress who served me last week gives me a sympathetic look. Ember’s only five minutes late and there’s no reason for her to stand me up this time.

The restaurant door opens, but it’s a couple that enters. I should’ve picked her up, but she insisted Jackie would drop her off. Two more customers enter before she finally arrives. I wave before smiling at the waitress. My girlfriend does exist, lady.

“Hi. Sorry I’m late. Morning sickness should be renamed because it can come on at any time.”

I stand and pull out her chair. “Are you sure you want to eat?”

“I’m feeling much better now, and I’m hungry.” She takes her seat, and I hand her the bouquet.

“These are for you.”

“Thank you. They are beautiful.” She smells them.

“Beautiful flowers for a beautiful woman.”

“You’re sweet.” She smiles.

“I got you chocolates too.” I tap the box with my index finger.

“I’m spoiled.” She hugs her chest in a swoon.

“You’re worth it.” I kiss her before sitting down at the opposite side of the table.

The waiter brings the menu and we take a look. Antonio’s smells like a real Italian paradise, and I lick my lips.

“How about we share a Bolognese, Lady and the Tramp style.” She points to a couples’ dish on the menu.

“Sounds great.” We order the food and some non-alcoholic cherry-flavored cocktails. “I’d like to turn my home gym into the nursery room. What color should I paint it?”

“Don’t you think we should wait?”

“I can start clearing out the room ready to decorate. I’m excited for the baby’s arrival, that’s all. Maybe we should wait to find out if it’s a girl or a boy.” I clasp her hand on the table.

She smiles. “I’m glad you’re happy, and of course you can start preparing the nursery. It’s your house. I don’t want you to think I’m taking over.”

“I’m hoping eventually it will be our home. I’m in this for the long-term, and I’d like you to be comfortable. If you want to add your personal touch to any of it, you can.” I rub my thumb over her knuckles.

“If I want to paint your bathroom pastel pink and add fluffy pink accessories, you’d be okay with that?” She smirks playfully.

I laugh. It’s obvious she’s joking, although I honestly wouldn’t care. “As long as you leave my shark shower cap alone.”

“I was going to ask you about that. Do you want a matching towel for your birthday?”

“Funny. It was a Secret Santa gift.” One of many wacky gifts from the guys at the firehouse.

“You and Santa would look awesome in a picture together. If you were Mr. December, you could’ve shown it off.”

“Maybe I’ll make you a personal calendar.” I wink at her. Ember’s never going to let me live down the modeling photos, but it’s all in good fun.

“Yes, please.” Her face lights up, and I shake my head. I was joking, but if I ever get stuck for a present to buy her, I know what to do.

The food arrives and we tuck in. “This is delicious,” Ember says.

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