Page 34 of (Not Really) Faking It With My Best Friend's Brother

A chuckle escaped my lips as I envisioned reading some of those romantic scenes aloud during our picnic. A mischievous glint danced in my eyes as I pictured the blush on Susan's cheeks and her melodic laugh as she swatted my arm in mock indignation. Nothing thrilled me more than the thought of bringing a smile to her face.

With my purchase in hand, I walked down the street towards the market, lost in daydreams of the afternoon we'd share. Today would be nothing short of perfection.

I hummed a cheerful jazz tune as I stepped into the market, ready to make this picnic everything Susan deserved.

With a basket tucked under my arm, I browsed the aisles, gathering an assortment of snacks Susan had told me she liked. Some ripe strawberries, cheddar popcorn, and a handful of chocolate truffles for something sweet. I also picked up some cheese, crackers, and a bottle of sparkling apple cider.

I couldn't help but let my mind wander, imagining her fingers plucking strawberries from the container and the way they would leave a pink stain on her lips. But I quickly snapped out of it, forcing myself to focus on the task at hand. There was still so much planning to do before I could get lost in her eyes again.

With the food sorted, I headed to the park to secure the perfect spot for our romantic escapade. I found a shady oak near the lake, its branches swaying gently in the breeze. After spreading out a cozy blanket, I artfully arranged the snacks, books, and a vase of wildflowers I’d picked along the way.

Stepping back, I admired my handiwork. The stage was set for a romantic afternoon. Now, all I needed was my leading lady. I checked my watch, giddy with an anticipation that I had never felt before. She'd be here soon.

I paced around the picnic area, checking my watch every few minutes. Where was she? It wasn't like Susan to be late without calling. I tried her cell again, but it went straight to voicemail.

Maybe she got held up at the library organizing some events? Or was caught in traffic? A knot formed in my stomach. What if something was wrong?

I was spiraling into a pit of worry when I heard footsteps approaching. I looked up to see Susan hurrying towards me, her cheeks flushed and wisps of hair escaping her bun.

"I'm so sorry I'm late!" She exclaimed breathlessly, giving me a quick peck on the cheek. "The library system crashed, and it was all hands on deck trying to get it back up."

Relief washed over me as I pulled her into an embrace. "I'm just glad you're okay. I was starting to imagine all sorts of horrible scenarios."

Susan's body relaxed into mine as she giggled. "You're always my protector." She looked over the picnic spread with a dazzling smile. "This looks amazing! You didn't have to go through all this trouble."

"It was no trouble at all." I grinned, my heart swelling at her reaction. "I wanted to surprise you with a relaxing afternoon."

Her eyes softened as she squeezed my hand gratefully. At that moment, nothing else mattered but the joy radiating from her face. As long as I could bring a smile to those lips, I was the luckiest man in the world.

We settled onto the blanket, the shade of the oak tree keeping us cool. I fed Susan a plump strawberry, watching in delight as she closed her eyes and savored the sweet juice.

"These strawberries are amazing!" Susan exclaimed, savoring each bite. "Where on earth did you find such ripe berries so early in the summer?"

"I know a guy who knows a guy," I teased mysteriously, eliciting another melodious giggle from her.

We sipped the bubbly apple cider, letting the effervescent drink tickle our throats. Susan regaled me with stories of the library's computer crash, waving her hands dramatically as she described the panicked patrons and frazzled staff. I threw my head back, laughing as she perfectly impersonated the persnickety head librarian, Mrs. Pemberton.

Soon, we were both doubled over with laughter, our voices echoing through the park. In that moment,

I couldn't recall a time when I felt so unburdened, so free to be myself and simply revel in the presence of another person.

As our laughter gradually subsided, I grabbed one of the books I had picked out for her earlier. "I thought maybe we could do a little reading together," I suggested, holding up a dog-eared copy of Pride and Prejudice.

Susan's eyes lit up. "I'd love that!" She scooted closer to me eagerly. "Which role do you want - Mr. Darcy or Elizabeth Bennet?"

"I think I'll be Elizabeth today," I said in a falsetto voice, eliciting a fresh round of giggles from Susan. We then launched into a dramatic reading, exaggerating the characters' voices and theatrical gestures. Our playful banter made the classic story come alive in a new way.

With every page I turned, my heart grew fonder for the incredible woman who was by my side. What had started as a simple picnic became an unforgettable journey, made even more special because she was there with me.

It was getting close to sunset, and it hit me that our perfect day was coming to an end. I wasn't ready for it to be over yet, not by a long shot.

"Hey, why don't we take one of those peddle boats out on the lake for a little spin before we have to go?" I suggested, pointing to the small boats bobbing near the shore.

Susan's eyes lit up. "I'd love to! I haven't been on one of those in years. I heard someone at the library talking about the town adding the little dock and peddle boats, but I haven’t had a chance to check them out."

We packed up the remains of our picnic and made our way over to the boats. After donning our life jackets, we climbed into one of the tiny vessels.

"Ready?" she asked, glancing at me with an impish grin.

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