Page 44 of The Off-limits Grump Next Door
I opened the door, and Antonio’s eyes locked onto mine.
His smile lit up the evening. “Wow,” he said, handing me a bouquet of lavender asters. “You look breathtaking.”
My heart skipped a beat. “Thanks,” I said, feeling my cheeks flush.
With one last glance at Tina, who mouthed “be careful,” I stepped out into the evening, my heart in my mouth.
This was it—our first date.
***
As we walked to Antonio's car, the cool evening breeze carried the sweet scent of lavender asters. I felt like a princess, and the way Antonio’s gaze lingered on me made my cheeks flush.
We arrived atLe Coeur de la Vie, a five-star restaurant renowned for its exquisite French cuisine. The maître d' greeted Antonio warmly and led us to a cozy table by the window. It was clear Antonio had made the reservation earlier in the day, and the thoughtful gesture made my heart swell.
Over champagne and appetizers, our conversation flowed effortlessly.
“Have I mentioned you look stunning tonight, Kendra?” Antonio said, his eyes never leaving mine.
“Only about a million times, I think.” I grinned. “You don’t look so bad yourself.”
He chuckled softly, the sound sending a pleasant thrill through me. “I try my best.”
When the waiter came to take our order for the main course, Antonio leaned forward slightly. “So, what college did you attend?”
I studied his face, enjoying the moment. “Actually, we went to the same college.”
The way his eyes widened put a satisfied smile on my lips. “Really? Wait, how’d you know what school I went to? Because I’d definitely remember if I’d met you before.”
“Well, let’s just say I was one very shy college kid. I saw you a couple of times. You were the captain of the football team. But you always had so many ladies around you… it would’ve been impossible for you to notice me.”
“Wow, you’re not joking.” He shook his head, looking bewildered. “I can’t believe it. Go Huskies!” he exclaimed, a nostalgic grin spreading across his face.
“Go Huskies!” I echoed, laughing.
“What were you studying?” he asked, genuine curiosity in his tone.
I hesitated. “Uh… Communications.”
“Interesting,” Antonio said, leaning back thoughtfully. “I majored in business administration. Did we ever take any classes together?”
I shook my head, still smiling. “I don’t think so. You were in your finals when I was just a freshman.”
Antonio’s eyes sparkled. “I wish I’d noticed you back then.”
My smile softened. “You were busy being the big man on campus.”
We fell into easy conversation, Antonio sharing stories about his family’s business and his unexpected passion for wine-making. I found myself drawn in, asking questions, laughing at his jokes. He was more relaxed than I’d ever seen him, and it made my chest tighten in a way that both thrilled and scared me.
As our main courses arrived, he turned the conversation back to me. “So, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?”
“I love writing… creative writing,” I admitted, my voice shy.
“Really?” Antonio’s eyes lit up. “What kind of stories do you write?”
I swallowed, trying to deflect. “Just random tales. Nothing too serious.” I wasn’t being entirely truthful, but it was the best response I could give. If he knew the real reason I was here, he’d shut me out in an instant.
Quickly, I redirected the spotlight back to him. “I’ve always been fascinated by people’s passions. So, tell me, Antonio, what drives you?”
