Page 27 of Fluttering Heart

I get lost in his eyes, in the pure happiness I see in them, but then he snaps me out of it.

“I’m guessing that’s new?” He points to the other desk, which isn’t as cool as mine, but it’s functional... It does look a bit cold compared to all the dark wood in the room, but it’s all Beau could find on short notice.

“Yes, Beau brought it over. You can set up there. He made sure to bring out an extension for power outlets, and here...” I pause as I go over to my desk and get the little laminated paper I always have on hand. “Is the Wi-Fi password. I’ll stay out of your way, but let me know if you need anything. Actually, you want some coffee?”

“I’d love some,” he says softly. I nod and get out of there fast.

CHAPTER 14

Lou

“It really is amazing.I mean, the view, the way the light changes over the yard during the day.” I sigh, and I don’t mind how lovesick I sound over Finn’s office.

His smile tells me he wholeheartedly agrees.

Besides, seeing all the still-hanging twinkling lights around town shine down on his beautiful face just adds something to the whole day.

When he told me the drive to the restaurant was less than ten minutes I asked if we could walk so I could see the town, and it was agreatidea.

Walking hand in hand down Main Street on a quiet though cold night, is probably the most romantic thing that’s ever happened to me.

“I know the rest of the house isn’t as impressive,” he says, twisting his face into a grimace.

“Your house is gorgeous,” I protest and cut him off, and I mean it too. “I think it really is, and I wouldn’t care if it wasn’t because... that office.”

Anyone else in the world would be looking at me like I’m insane or rolling their eyes at me, but Finn smiles proudly.

“I love that we have that in common,” he says quietly.

“Me too.”

I squeeze his hand once and he stops, looks at the building and I...

“We’re having dinner at Warm Heart?!” I demand, seriously surprised. Then it clicks. “Oh my God, you’re one ofthoseHearts!”

“I am,” he says happily. “Now, are you ready to make all your culinary dreams come true?”

“I am!” Now I’m the one pulling him inside.

Warm Heart feels exactly the way every review I’ve read of it has ever said... Warm.

It’s cozy, homey, and if the big stars gracing the wall of the entrance are any indication, it’s one of the best restaurants in the country—actually, maybe the world.

The host greets Finn with familiarity and leads us to a secluded booth near the back. Our waiter brings over menus and gets our drink orders, and this is already an unbeatable time when an older man with some salt in his dirty-blond hair comes over. He’s wearing everything I imagine a chef would, except the hat, and he smiles brilliantly when he sees us.

“Finn,” he says cheerfully.

We both stand, and I’m introduced after they hug.

“Lou, this is my uncle Leo. He’s the chef here.”

I’m tongue tied for a moment, but then reach to shake his hand with maybe a bit too much enthusiasm.

“It’s an honor to meet you, sir. I can’t wait to taste the food here.”

“It’s your first time at Warm Heart?” He looks delighted as he asks, like it’s weird that I’ve never been here before, as if it’s just any other restaurant—it’s fucking not. Any normal person would have to wait years for a reservation.

“It is,” I confirm.

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