Page 21 of The Dallas Dilemma

760-555-2132:Hey, Dallas. It’s Josette. I just wanted to thank you again for dinner last night. I had a really good time.

I continue to smile as I save her number and text her back.

Me:I had a really good time, too. The tacos were delicious, and the company was exquisite.

I hit send, and my smile drops as I bite my lip. Was “exquisite” too strong of a word? I mean, it’s how I feel, but… I just don’t want to scare her off.

A reply comes through, and my smile is back in an instant, accompanied by a bark of laughter.

Josette:Exquisite, huh? Well,I don’t know how to put this, but…I’m kind of a big deal.

Me:Okay, Ron Burgundy, no need to get a big head.

Josette:People know me.

I search my brain for the nextAnchormanquote, but I can’t remember for the life of me.

Me:Line?

Josette:It’s“Well, I’m very happy for you.”

Me:Right. You got me on that one, ha-ha. I’ll have to come up with a quote equally as hard for you next time.

Josette:Bring it.

Me:Ha! Easy. Bring It On.

Me:So, what are you up to today?

Josette:Nothing much. I’ll probably catch up on some of my T.V. shows. What about you?

Me:Well, since today is my last day before I start my new job, I thought I’d get out and have some fun. I’d really like to explore the local beaches. I know the harbor is only 20 mins away, so I thought I’d check that out first. Care to join me?

I hit send on the text, my heartrate spiking with anticipation as I wait for her to answer. And I wait. And wait. And wait.

What feels like an hour––but is probably only three minutes––passes, and I’m second-guessing the invitation. I’m pushing too hard, too fast. I try to compose a message that backpedals while at the same time doesn’t push her away, but before I can come up with a single word, a reply comes through.

Josette:Sorry, my sister called, and I just saw your invitation. I love the harbor. I can be your tour guide.

I blow out a breath of relief while my heart slows down to its regular rhythm. She said yes. She’s going to spend the day with me. I’m fucking ecstatic, but I try to appear chill when I text her back.

Me:Great! I can be ready in half an hour. Does that work for you?

Josette:That works for me. See you soon.

Me:See you soon.

Hopping out of bed, I rush through my shower and wrap a towel around my waist. I check out my reflection while I brush my teeth and decide the scruff on my jaw looks good, so I don’t need to shave and risk being late. I dress in a pair of board shorts and a t-shirt before grabbing a hoodie to throw in my car. It’s almost summer, but California beaches are notorious for being downright chilly, especially in the morning before the overcast skies burn off.

Slipping my bare feet into a pair of flip flops, I grab my keys and step out into the hall. Locking my door behind me, I turn, take a deep breath, and approach Josette’s door. She answers a few seconds after I knock, opening the door with a smile. I smile back at her, then have to clear my throat when my gaze takes in the rest of her. She looks amazing in a pair of tiny denim shorts and a white tank top. The blue straps of her bathing suit emerge from the neckline of the tank to tie behind her neck, and her hair is tied up in a shiny, messy bun on her crown.

“Hi,” she says when I continue to stare down at her, and I shake my head to clear it.

“Hi,” I reply, keeping my voice light. “You ready to go?”

She nods, and I step back, giving her plenty of space to exit her apartment. After she locks her door, she moves in beside me. It’s torture to not take her hand as we walk toward the elevator. But I know that even though this isdefinitely adatein my mind, it might not be the same thing to Josette.

Remember to take things slow. Don’t be pushy, Dallas.

---