Page 17 of Prairie Nights

Not far from the arena, Hayden turned off the main street into an industrial area and pulled into a parking lot in front of a building that resembled an old warehouse.

“What is this place?” Whitney asked, as she got out of the truck and took in the old brick structure, glancing around at the bustle of people coming in and out of the building.

“This is The Forks. It’s where the Red River and Assiniboine River meet, and it’s been turned into a tourist place with shops and lots of food vendors. They also have lots of activities you can do here all year long.”

Whitney’s eyes widened with excitement as Hayden took her hand and led her into the building. Walking through the entrance, it opened into a two-story open space with high beamed ceilings and a glass roof letting in natural light. The smell of foreign spices tickled her senses as they passed rows of food vendors peddling their delicious wares amongst the century old brick alcoves. The bright bold colors of the shop awnings brought a sense of whimsy to the space, enticing you to explore and see what treasures you could find in the cute shops and kiosks. Hayden led her down a hall leading into what looked like a large food court, flagged with every type of food vendor your heart desired.

“My favorite place is just over here, around this corner.” he gestured, leading her into yet another hallway and into a third open area. There was a vendor whose sign read “All Day Breakfast and Brunch.”

“The food here is the best,” Hayden explained as they took their place in line.

Whitney’s eyes roamed the simple menu and her stomach growled, making them both laugh. “I’ll have whatever you’re having.” she answered. “Surprise me!”

“Okay, that’s easy enough.” He replied as their turn came up. “Two breakfast specials, an extra order of hash browns and sausage please, and two black coffees.”

As he pulled out his wallet to pay for their breakfasts, Hayden asked Whitney to find them a seat around the corner. Finding an open area with about a half dozen tables that faced the windows overlooking the river, she found a free table and took a seat and admired the view outside. The glistening snow covered everything in a soft blanket of white, and the trees that lined the walkway were sparkling with hoarfrost in the bright morning sunshine. Glancing around the dining space, she marveled at the high ceilings with white fairy lights strung up by the beams, giving it a magical feel against the rustic brick walls. This place is gorgeous.

“I hope you’re hungry!” Hayden exclaimed as he rounded the corner, holding a tray full of food. The smell of sausage, bacon, eggs, fried potatoes, and hot buttered toast filling her senses.

“Wow, this all looks amazing.” She said, taking in the spread laid before them.

“I think we worked up an appetite.” he winked, flashing her a coquettish grin.

Whitney smiled back, popping a buttery fried potato into her mouth, and letting out a moan of approval. “Oh my, these are crazy good!”

Hayden nodded in agreement and with questioning eyes, he asked. “Speaking of crazy good, how are you feeling about last night?”

“And this morning.” she added, giving him a playful wink between bites.

Hayden chuckled and reached out for her hand, meeting her gaze with seriousness. “Are you okay with this?” he asked, pointing between them. “Am I wrong in thinking we have started something amazing here?”

She offered him a soft smile and squeezed his hand. “We have, Hayden.”

Hayden let out a long breath, obviously relieved by her answer, then continued. “So, where do we go from here?” he asked, his eyes intense and hopeful.

“Are you asking me if we’re dating now?” she asked, meeting his insistent gaze, and glancing away as if contemplating his question. She smiled, returned her gaze to his, and replied. “Yes.”

“So, is it safe to assume you’re now my girlfriend?” Hayden continued, seeking clarification.

She cocked her head to the side again and searched his inquiring eyes. Her lips curved into a confirming smile. “Yes, Hayden.”

Suddenly Hayden jumped up from his chair, letting out an echoing whoop and pumping his fist into the air. Everyone at their respective tables looked at them, a mix of confusion and amusement on their faces. Whitney laughed, her face reddening, and shook her head at his very public show. Taking her hand and bringing her to her feet, he swooped her up into a huge hug, lifting her off the ground. A security guard came around the corner, scrutinizing them both.

“Is everything okay over here?” the security guard asked, his hand poised on his radio.

“This beautiful woman just agreed to be my girlfriend!” Hayden bellowed, eliciting snickers and few claps from the other patrons.

The security guard smiled, shook his head, and let out a little chuckle. “As you were, then,” he said, gesturing to them both.

Whitney laughed and met Hayden’s twinkling eyes. His sweet and unexpected reaction made her heart burst with happiness. Hayden had proven to her he was trustworthy and would never intentionally hurt her. He was like no other man she had ever met, and after everything she had been through in the past, she needed some goodness in her life. Hayden represented a second chance, and she deserved to see where this relationship would take them.

* * *

A few days later, Ben and Ever returned from their honeymoon. Hayden and Whitney, eager to see them and share their news, made plans to meet them at the Eazy for lunch.

Hayden noticed Ben’s truck was already in the lot and let out a long exhale.

“Are you nervous, Hayden?” Whitney asked, putting her hand on his thigh.

---