Page 4 of A Whole New Play

She cocks her head to the side in confusion.

I cross my arms with a grin. “I’m still waiting to hear your favorite color?”

She rolls her eyes. “Seriously?”

“Yes.”

She pinches her lips together, fighting back a smile. “Red.”

“What a coincidence, that’s my favorite color, too.”

“Really?” Her tone says she doesn’t believe me. I don’t let it bother me.

“Really. So… dinner?”

Her stunning green eyes dart between mine, searching. “Look… I don’t know what it is you want out of this conversation, but you’re sure to be disappointed.”

My forehead furrows.

What does that mean?

“All I want is dinner,” I reply honestly.

She lifts a brow. “That’s it? You aren’t secretly hoping I’ll find my way back to your hotel room for the night?”

“Well, I’d be lying if I said that doesn’t sound appealing.” I shoot her a smile that’s charmed more women than I can count when I was growing up. Once I got to college, it was the smile that snagged me Laura and resulted in two adorable, if not rambunctious, kids.

Thinking of the twins sobers me, and I feel compelled to confess, “I’m going to level with you, Valerie. My life has been shit lately. I’m on this trip in a poor attempt to relax so that when I get back to the real world I’m better equipped to handle my problems. And I’m not going to lie, you’re the most gorgeous woman I’ve seen in a long time, and you’re the first I’ve wanted to take on a date in a year. So, with no expectations beyond a good meal and entertaining conversation, will you go out with me?”

Valerie’s eyes shined with distrust at the beginning of my little speech, but as I confessed my motives, they visibly softened. Understanding now shines out of those stunning green irises. Her lips part, preparing to reply, when her friend’s shout interrupts.

“Seriously? What’s the holdup, guys?” Megan sounds exasperated. “I’d like to finish this game sometime today, please!”

“I’m trying to convince your friend to go out with me,” I call over my shoulder, an appealing smile still pasted on my face.

“Oh,” Megan replies gleefully. She waves a hand between us. “In that case, continue. And take your time!”

“Megan!” Valerie chokes out.

Her friend laughs in response.

I smile and turn back to Valerie, watching her expression as I wait for her answer.

She purses her lips, then frowns. “You’re not like… married, are you?”

I snort. “God, no.”

“Hm.” Green eyes trail over my face, searching for any hint of deception or manipulation. She finds none. “And you’re really okay with just having dinner? No funny business?”

“I might want some dessert. I hear the chef has a special chocolate and raspberry cake on the menu for tonight.”

She can’t fight back her smile. “Fine.”

“Fine?”

“Yes, fine. I’ll have dinner with you.”

I’m not normally one to question my good fortune, but I’d been prepared to use more tools in my persuasive toolbox. I can’t help but ask, “What changed your mind?”

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