Page 100 of Seeds of Malice

I obey, offering, "It smells really good."

"Now, take a sip. Hold it in your mouth for a few seconds before you swallow it."

I do as he says. Smoke, cherries, and other flavors I can't even decipher pop in my mouth.

I've never had wine before. My dad only drinks beer. But this tastes divine.

I swallow it, and Dax asks, "What do you think?"

I gush, "It's amazing."

He nods at the server.

Thomas fills both our glasses. He asks, "Is there anything else I can get you two?"

Dax answers, "No."

Thomas leaves, and Dax slides his arm around me. He holds his glass in the air.

I put mine next to his.

"To our first date and many to come," he toasts, then clinks his glass with mine.

I tilt my head. "Wasn't the boat day a date?"

He scoffs. "No, that was just a day at the estate."

"Oh."

He takes a sip, and I follow his lead. Then I lean closer to him, glancing around, and murmuring, "What if I get caught?"

"Caught?" he questions.

"Yeah, I'm not twenty-one."

He gives me an amused look. "You're with me. Anything's possible when you're with me. Nobody's going to say anything to you."

"Really?" I question, still trying to grasp that concept.

"Yep! Now, drink up. This is really expensive wine, but only the best for you."

I take another sip, not used to anyone spending money on me and not wanting to look ungrateful. Dax is so generous. I couldn't ever dream of anyone spoiling me how he has today.

He takes a large mouthful of wine.

"Can I ask you something?" I say.

"Sure."

I collect my thoughts, my anxiety filling my chest.

"What is it?" he questions.

My pulse increases. "Do you think I'll fit in at Clifton University?"

His eyes narrow.

It makes me even more nervous. I blurt out, "Is that a no?"

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