Page 14 of Say Yes

It could have been minutes, or it could have been hours that passed. I just knew I didn’t want to let Casey out of my arms. Soon, though, I knew it was time to go. Technically, the restaurant had been closed for over an hour, and I didn’t want to put out the employees any more than we already had.

Reluctantly, I broke our embrace, but still kept holding Casey’s hand.

“We should probably get going.” I murmured.

Almost drowsily, Casey looked around, as if she’d forgotten where we were. “Oh, wow, I didn’t realize it was getting so late.”

We walked back through the restaurant and down the stairs. Just then, my friend Thomas exited the kitchen and waved at us.

Before I even had the opportunity, in a move that had me surprised, but extremely proud, Casey, cleared her throat and spoke up. “Are you the person who let us use your upstairs?”

“Yes, ma’am. Thomas Adkins. It’s a pleasure to meet you. Casey, right?” He reached out to shake hands.

I watched as Casey nervously, and not so inconspicuously, wiped her palm on her dress before slowly reaching out to clasp hands with him, then quickly breaking contact.

“Thank you so much for this. You have an amazing restaurant, and the food was delicious. This was one of the best nights of my life. Well, um, I just wanted to say thanks.”

“You’re absolutely welcome. You and Philip are honored guests, and we’d love for you to return anytime.”

I shook Thomas’ hand before leading Casey out to my truck.

“I’m glad you enjoyed yourself.” My glance darted to her as I drove us back to her house.

She turned to look at me, her eyes shining brightly, even in the darkness, with unshed tears. “It was the most amazing night ever. I can’t even begin to explain how thankful I am for what you gave me tonight, Philip. I’ll remember this night for the rest of my life.”

“The night’s not over yet.” I winced, because my words came out far more suggestively than I’d meant.

Thankfully, Casey’s naivety worked to my advantage because she didn’t seem to notice. We continued the ride in silence until finally we were home.

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