Page 42 of The Grumpy Actor

The orchestra music flowing in from the gallery is an added touch I requested since Sophie loves classical music.

This is going to be our first official date since we got back together.

We’ve barely had time to do anything together because of my tight shooting schedule. All we’ve done is spend every free moment we have going on walks together or spending time at my place.

The fond memories of all the time we’ve spent together ease my nerves.

Sophie is going to appreciate what I’ve done because that’s who she is.

The sound of clicking heels draws my attention. I stand up as the server walks into the restaurant with Sophie behind him.

My heart skips several beats as my eyes roam all over her body.

She’s gorgeous.

Her curls are styled in a way that frames her face almost seductively. The red dress she has on clings to every curve on her body, making it impossible to look away.

My pulse kicks up, heat rising under my skin as I fight to stay focused.

Her hazel eyes seem to shine brighter tonight. There’s a light in them that I haven’t seen in a while. It reminds me of back when we were in college.

I step out as she nears the table.

“You look absolutely stunning, my lady,” I say, stretching my hand out to her.

“Thank you, my good sir.” She giggles softly, placing her smaller hand in mine.

I place a soft kiss on her palm before pulling the chair out for her. Sophie takes her seat and looks around the room.

“Why is this place empty?”

I return to my seat. “Because I rented the whole restaurant for the evening.”

Sophie gasps, frantically looking around the place now. She leans in to whisper, “You can’t just do that!”

“I can. It’s much better this way. We won’t have people all up in our faces.”

Doesn’t she like it? Did I make a mistake?

“Oh, that makes sense,” she agrees softly, but she still looks doubtful. “But it looks like an event was going to happen here, and you must have taken the space.”

“An event?”

“Yes, look at all the decorations.”

“Oh.” I chuckle, visibly relaxing now that I know what she’s worried about. “Take a closer look at the decorations and tell me what you notice, Sophie.”

Sophie frowns and looks around again. “Flowers.”

“What kind of flowers?”

“Daisies.” She gasps, turning wide eyes on me. “You did this?”

I nod.

“Oh Liam! That’s so sweet.”

“I’m glad you approve.”

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