Page 171 of How to Score Off Field

As I step into the softly lit area, our eyes meet, and there’s a mixture of anticipation and vulnerability in his gaze. How can he doubt this for one second? How could he think I wouldn’t love this?

He holds out a chair for me, fingers brushing against mine.

From behind, he leans down and kisses the side of my neck.

“Welcome,” he says a bit formally—as if he were a server in a fancy restaurant. “I hope you like it.”

Like it?

Is he for real?

I love it.

I’m quite literally at a loss for words as I take in the scene. The stars above us shimmer their approval as if they’re witnessing a moment that’s just as magical as they are.

“I feel so special.”

Drew takes his seat across from me, spreading a napkin across his lap.

“Iwantedto do something special for you, something that would let you know how much you mean to me.”

A lump forms in my throat, overwhelmed by the depth of his sentiment.

“Drew, this... this is the most romantic thing anyone has ever done for me.”

A soft smile curves his lips, his hand reaching across the table to find mine. “You deserve it.”

“Where did this all come from?” And how did I not notice any of it in the back of the truck?

The spread is ridiculous and more than enough for two people. He’s set up an elevated charcuterie—or grazing board—with almonds, crackers and cheese, and a variety of meat. Grapes. Apricots. Mini pickles, olives, some other veggies.

Sliced apples.

I can’t believe my eyes.

“Obviously, I had help.” He clears his throat. “I thought for sure half the shit would break on the road here. Every time I hit a pothole, I almost shit myself.”

“I’m sure.”

Drew hands me a plate from a small stack and a few utensils. Even though it’s all finger food and forks aren’t necessary, the ambience is out of this world.

Amazing.

“Are you sad I’m leaving tomorrow after I threw that little fit?”

“I don’t think it was a fit. You had every right to be upset about me callin’ you a friend.”

“I did overreact.”

He doesn’t agree or disagree with me. “You look cute tonight.”

I spread my arms wide, the sleeves of this oversized crewneck billowing. “You told me to dress comfortable and casual, so here I am.”

“I want to squish and cuddle you.”

“Are you gonna?”

“Yup, totally. After we finish eating.”

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