I noted the blush spreading across her cheeks as they turned a light shade of pink. “Thank you. You don’t look too shabby yourself,” she laughed softly.
As we arrived, Grace looked around, slightly worried. Her eyes were wide, and her brows lifted. “Are you sure we’re at the right place?” she asked softly. “This place looks a bit creepy. There doesn’t seem to be too many signs of life around.”
The place didn’t appear to have a lot of lighting outside. The parking area did look a bit creepy. But there were about ten other vehicles. I trusted the intel, so I knew we would be safe here. Grinning, I replied in a light tone. “Yes, this is the place. Don’t worry, you’ll love it.”
Getting out, I moved quickly to open her door. She leaned closer as she took my hand and got out, whispering. “I don’t think so. It looks like we are in the woods where no one will ever find us. Do you have other plans with me?”
“Grace,” I responded, pulling her close. “I have many plans, but none will cause you any harm.” She accepted this and walked with me.
We entered through the double arch leading inside. The lights of the foyer were also dim. It was bigger than I had imagined. I saw the man standing by a small podium-type desk as we got to the dark wooden doors.
“Good evening,” he said lightly. “Booking?”
“Vasiliev,” I replied, holding Grace tightly.
The man glanced at a book before him and nodded. He stepped to the big doors, pulling one open. “Enjoy the evening, sir,” he said as we walked in.
Stopping just inside, I couldn’t believe the transformation compared to the outside. Grace gasped next to me. “Look at this place,” she breathed out.
Before I could reply, a young woman approached us. “Evening,” she said, smiling. “Please follow me.”
She headed towards the back. The tables were wide apart, and I could see only about fifteen of them. I now understand why they only worked on bookings. It offered a lot of privacy.
The table was set up with three candles. These were packed around the ice bucket, holding a bottle of champagne. On her side lay a box of chocolates. Grace looked at the table and then at me. Her eyes were filled with tears.
“Are you okay?” I asked, taking her hand.
“Thank you,” she whispered, beaming. “They are tears of joy.”
Smiling at her, I pulled out the chair and waited for her to sit. I then sat opposite her.
“Would you like to order, sir?” the waiter inquired.
Skimming the menu, I decided for both of us. “Please bring us tonight’s specialty dish,” I replied, returning the menus to the waiter. He nodded and walked away.
“I hope the chocolates are fine; they didn’t have a wide selection,” I said, pouring the champagne.
Grace looked up, grinning as she spoke. “They are perfect. This place is perfect and the whole evening. Thank you for bringing me here. I have never been to such a beautiful place. It is filled with tranquility and joy.”
“I’m glad you like it and are enjoying the evening,” I said, taking her hand and squeezing it tenderly. “I wasn’t sure what kind of flowers to get, so I had them make up an assortment.”
“I like most types of flowers,” Grace replied. “If I have to select a thought, I will most likely go with roses, violets, or white lilies.”
I loved listening to her talk about things she liked or loved. She was passionate about everything and spoke with enthusiasm. We sat in silence for a moment as I watched her admiring the scenery.
Her light brown hair shone, lighting up her face as the light from the candles fell on her. My heart felt like it was melting. She was such a special woman. I couldn’t imagine not knowing her.
“What kind of activities or places do you like? Museums, Landmarks, or any such interests? That is, except for chess.” I questioned. I considered taking her on a second date to see one of the many brilliant museums we have. I wondered if she would enjoy it, though.
“Well,” she replied, staring into the distance. “I haven’t really been to such places. With my studies, I didn’t get a lot of time to explore the world. I do like visiting landmarks, though,” she responded. Her eyes sparkled as she spoke.
“Sports,” I added, grinning. “Please tell me like sport?”
Grace laughed softly. “Yes, I actually enjoy watching football, and after seeing your brother on the tracks, I love racing.”
Her cheeks turned red. I couldn’t help but laugh as I reached out and took her hand. “Well, I’m glad to hear it,” I responded.
Grace squeezed my hand as she leaned in. “Tell me,” she said softly. “What would you have enjoyed doing if you didn’t have to work for the Chernykhs?”