Page 92 of Love You Madly

“Anytime, girl. I suggest putting a handkerchief in your purse before you leave.”

“Who the fuck carries handkerchiefs anymore?” I ask, confused.

“I’m just saying you’re going to have that poor man drooling. Take him something to clean up with,” she suggests with a wink. I immediately burst into laughter as she walks out the door.

I hope she’s right. I’ve been growing increasingly self-conscious, and I want to look my best for our date.

With my outfit sorted, I add a touch of makeup, just enough to highlight my features, and pull my hair into a loose braid that drapes over my right shoulder. I glance at the clock and realize I need to get going or I’m going to be late meeting Owen in Iowa City for our date.

When I arrive at the seafood restaurant we agreed on, I take a moment to steady my nerves.

This is it.

I step out of the car and walk towards the entrance, smoothing my dress one last time. When I see Owen waiting outside, my heart skips a beat. He’s sporting a light gray V-neck shirt that exposes a bit of his chest hair. I’m not a fan of facial or body hair, but here I am, trying to avoid jumping the bones of the man in front of me, who also has a full beard.

I’m certain I’ve never been so attracted to a man before. His deep brown eyes lock onto mine, and for a moment, it feels like the world stops turning.

“Hello, beautiful,” he says, his voice warm and inviting.

I reply, feeling breathless, “Hey, you.”

“You look great.”

“So do you,” he says, stepping closer and leaning in to give me a soft kiss on the cheek. His familiar eucalyptus and citrus scent fills my senses, and makes me second guess not bringing a handkerchief.

Owen takes my hand, and we head into the restaurant. As the hostess leads us to our table, I take a moment to soak it all in. The ambiance is perfect, and the company is exceptional. Owen reaches across the table, taking my hand in his. “I’ve been looking forward to this all week,” he says, his dark eyes meeting mine.

“Me too,” I reply, feeling our connection deepen. His touch sends a warm, comforting sensation through me, and I can’t help but squeeze my thighs together a bit.

The hostess hands us our menus, and I can’t help but chuckle. “So, any recommendations for a seafood restaurant in the middle of Iowa?” I tease, raising an eyebrow.

Owen laughs. “I know, right? But trust me, their lobster mac and cheese is amazing.”

“Alright, I’ll take your word for it,” I say, grinning.

After placing our orders, I take a moment to survey the surroundings. The restaurant is cozy and inviting, with warm lighting that casts a soft glow over everything. There’s a gentle hum of conversation around us, creating a pleasant background noise. Owen weaves his fingers with mine, and the simple gesture fills me with a deep sense of comfort.

The conversation flows easily, filled with laughter and light teasing. Owen’s stories are so funny, they make me laugh until my sides hurt. He has a way of making me feel completely at ease, like we’ve known each other forever.

As our food arrives, I’m struck by how delicious everything looks. The lobster mac and cheese is rich and seasoned. The explosion of flavor with each bite leads me to moan inappreciation. Owen grins at me, clearly amused by my reaction.

“Told you it was good,” he says, winking.

“This might be the best thing I’ve ever tasted,” I reply, taking another bite. “It’s better than sex!”

“I wouldn’t go that far.”

“I would,” I insist.

“It seems like you’re not experiencing the proper type of sexual activity,” he remarks, his smile widening.

It’s been a long time since I’ve felt this relaxed and happy. Something about being with Owen feels right. We share stories from our childhoods, dreams for the future, and everything in between. I feel increasingly connected to him, certain of a special bond between us.

“So, if you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?” Owen asks, leaning forward with genuine interest.

“London,” I say without hesitation. “I’ve wanted to go since I read the first book in theHarry Potterseries.”

“I never really got into those. I think I was a senior in high school when they came out,” he says.

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