He shoves his hands into his pockets.
“I considered bringing donuts, but I wanted tonight to be different than most days at the office. I know flowers are kind of cliché and old school, but I had to think of every possible way to make this night memorable.”
“I love them. Thank you.”
I motion for him to come inside, and he follows me to the kitchen, where we find Gabby making popcorn.
I hold up the flowers and give her a huge smile.
“Those are gorgeous,” she exclaims. “Tulips are my favorite flower.”
“This is my roommate Gabby,” I say, making introductions.
Jeremy holds out his hand to shake hers. “It’s very nice to meet you. Any friend of Reagan’s is a friend of mine.”
Gabby gives him a warm smile. “Same here. I’ve heard a lot about you.”
Jeremy shoots me glance out of the corner of his eye.
“Really? Is Reagan bragging on me again?”
I laugh. “I wouldn’t call it bragging, but you can think what you want.”
“Well, everything she’s told you is true,” he insists. “I’m handsome, fun, and a great kisser.”
I start to blush. Not that I’m surprised by Jeremy’s comment, and to give credit where it’s due, he is a great kisser.
I arrange the tulips in a crystal vase and fill it with water while Jeremy and Gabby chat. One of Jeremy’s best qualities is his communication skills. He has a way of making people feel like he’s truly interested in what they have to say. That’s why our clients always like him.
“I have an exciting night of catching up onThe Bachelorahead of me,” Gabby says, holding up her popcorn. “Have fun tonight.”
“I’ll try not to keep her out too late,” Jeremy assures her.
Gabby looks at me and raises her eyebrows. “No worries. I won’t wait up.”
After she’s gone, Jeremy slides closer to me, causing a stir within my chest.
“I was going to suggest we visit your backyard really quick, but maybe we can save that for later,” he whispers.
My legs turn to Jell-O as the thought of the last time he was here floods my memories.
“Maybe,” I reply, leaning against the counter. “I’m curious to see you in action on a real date. The flowers were a good start.”
He places his hands on either side of me, and just when I think he’s about to kiss me he moves away. “All right, Blondie, your wish is my command.”
I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed that he didn’t kiss me, but the night is still young.
I pick up my bag from the barstool and place my hand in his. As he leads me to the car, my heart begins to race again. We’re doing this. Jeremy and I are officially on a date together.
After we leave my house, our conversation is easy and comfortable, and like Gabby said, we don’t have to worry about any formalities. Jeremy makes a few subtle gestures to show his affection by placing his hand on my leg and then holding my hand.
I’m so excited (and a tiny bit relieved) when we pull up at Prime 112.Admittedly, the thought crossed my mind that we’d be going to Golden because Dante aside, I love the food. I guess it’s a good thing that Jeremy doesn’t share that sentiment.
“I hope this is okay?” he asks.
“Yes, my sister raves about this restaurant,” I exclaim. “I haven’t had a chance to try it yet.”
This could be because I’ve been going to the same restaurant for months. It’s wild, but I actually feel like I’m completely starting over again in this city. Jeremy definitely brings an air of fun and exhilaration.