Page 32 of Pursued By My Grumpy Fiancé
“What are you doing here?” She stops and plants her hands on her hips.
She’s so cute when she tries to look stern, and I don’t think she even realizes it. The freckles on her nose scrunch with it as she waits for my answer.
“I figured we could get some take out—we could grab some food and spend some more time getting to know each other.” I walk around and open the passenger door for her.
“From that fancy French place again?” she asks, getting into the car.
I close the door and walk over to my own side, getting in.
“Not the French place. A different one. I was thinking Italian.” I put my key in the ignition and back out of the parking spot.
“We need to go to my apartment first.” She says. I look at her and she raises her eyebrows.
“Why?” I ask as I flip my turn signal on.
“Because I look like I just got out of jail? I want to look presentable.” She gives me a look, like I should have read her mind and known.
“You always look presentable.” I say.
She rolls her eyes.
“Just take me to my apartment, please,” she says.
“You’re the boss.” I say as I shift lanes.
I’msittingonthecouch in Hailey’s living room as she gets ready. It’s a humble apartment, but she’s managed to make it homey. Sheer blue curtains cover the window. The feature piece is a huge painting hanging over the television. It’s of a waterfall surrounded by tiny purple and blue flowers. I look around, and I can feel myself getting impatient, despite the fact that I’ve only been waiting for about thirty minutes.
Just as I’m about to call out for her, Hailey steps into the room. She’s wearing a tight black cocktail dress that stops just above the knee. Her stiletto pumps are tall, yet she doesn’t stumble. Her hair is pulled into a loose side braid, with strands falling out around her face. Her makeup is light, with a focus on her berry-toned lips. I can feel my jaw drop at the sight of her.
“You look incredible,” I say as I get up to walk towards her.
She smiles and looks down.
“I’ve been waiting for a chance to wear this dress. Are you ready to go?” she asks.
I nod and grab her hand. I take note of the delightful scent wafting off of her—a perfume with a spicy, yet floral smell. It’s entirely captivating.
We step out the door and make our way downstairs.
Haileyislookingaroundthe rooftop Italian restaurant in awe. It’s sleek and modern, with dark wood columns standing at various spots within the restaurant. Edison bulb string lights wrap their way around each column, ensuring sufficient mood lighting throughout. Hailey and I are seated at a private table that overlooks the whole city.
“This view is incredible,” she says.
The city lights reflect in her eyes, small white dots shimmering within her brilliant green irises.
“Good evening. Here are two menus. Our special today is a Gamberoni alla Thermidor, with freshly sourced prawns. Would you two care for a glass of our house prosecco?” The server asks.
I glance at Hailey and she raises an eyebrow. It seems that she isn’t making a call on a wine this time.
“Yes, two glasses of the prosecco would be great, thank you.”
The server nods and saunters off. Hailey opens the menu and looks over it.
“Oh my god, this all sounds incredible. I love that there are English descriptions for everything. Much easier than the French restaurant.” She grins, and I can’t help but adore the childish look in her eye.
“So, you know what you want then?” I ask.
She nods enthusiastically.
