Page 44 of Edward’s Bunny

Magical

Brian

We walked into the Garden Bistro hand in hand, and I couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and warmth. Edward had just opened up to me about his painful past, and my heart went out to him. At the same time, I was humbled to know how he trusted me with such a personal moment. I felt my connection and bond grow stronger, and my confidence in our relationship grew along with it.

The atmosphere of the restaurant was pleasant, with warm lighting and wood accents. It also boasted a garden terrace. The staff was dressed smartly in black slacks, white button-down shirts, and a long white apron. Despite their formal attire, they didn't come across as pretentious like in some fancy establishments I'd been to. Instead, they seemed genuinely friendly, as evidenced by the warm welcome from the hostess who greeted us.

“Good evening, welcome to The Garden Bistro. My name’s Candence. Do you have a reservation this evening?” the beautiful girl in her mid-twenties asked cheerfully.

Edward smiled. “Yes, we do. It should be under Satchel.”

The young woman’s eyes briefly widened, and I internally grinned. Everyone knew the Satchel name in the city. The company was a massive powerhouse, and those with the Satchel name carried influence.

Candence straightened and smiled. “Yes, Mr. Satchel. We’ve been expecting you. We have your usual table prepared for you and your associate in the main dining room.”

I was a little disappointed by her words. I had hoped we’d be seated on the garden terrace, but I was sure it’d still be lovely.

Edward stepped close to the hostess, and I heard him whisper. “I’d prefer a seat on the terrace, the most romantic you have.”

Candence’s eyes widened again as she looked back and forth between Edward and me. “Uh, um, of course. If you’d follow me, I’ll guide you there,” she recovered with a clearing of her throat.

Edward smiled and grabbed my hand again as Candence led us through the main dining room and out the garden terrace. I stumbled on my feet when we made it outside at the sheer beauty that met us. It was an oasis of tropical flowers. Edward looked back at me in concern as I had stopped. I shook my head and motioned to continue.

Candence guided us further to a secluded corner that blocked the views of other patrons with the flowers and plants. It was a small romantic table set up specifically for a couple. Twinkling lights dimly lit the area, and a silver champagne bucket stood proudly beside the table. I loved it.

“Here we are,” Candence said, holding her hand out to the table. Edward put his hand on my lower back, and I shivered at the touch. He carefully led me to my seat before taking his. Candence watched our interaction as we settled before speaking. “Silas will be your server this evening and will be right with you. Please let us know if you require anything.”

With those words, she left us to our devices. I leaned over the table conspiratorially and whispered. “This place is amazing. Thank you for bringing me.”

Edward mirrors my actions. “You’re very welcome.”

I sat back in my chair and sobered. “Edward,” I said.

He lifted his head from the menu he’d picked up. “Is something wrong?”

“Not necessarily wrong. But…” I trailed off, trying to think of how to say the words.

“Whatever it is, you can tell me,” Edward said, urging me to speak.

“Did you notice the people in the dining room? Specifically, those from your pride, or I assume they were—I smelled lion.”

Edward nodded. “I did, and they were. Did they do something to you? I’ll go handle them right this instant if they did.”

I shook my head. “No, but…. you basically announced our relationship to everyone in that dining room. Is it going to cause problems for you? I don’t want to cause you problems.”

Edward smiled. “I will shout who you are from the rooftops and face any challenge to be with you. I’m not ashamed that I’m out on a date with you or who you are to me. No one else matters. This is for us.”

“Are you sure?” I asked.

“I’m positive.”

“Good evening. Welcome to the Garden Bistro. My name is Silas, and I’ll be your server this evening. May I offer you a lovely wine to start off, or our bartender makes a nice cocktail,” A young man in his early twenties or even late teens asked. He was dressed like the other members of the staff and had short dark hair and a handsome face.

Edward tilted his head. “Did you want anything in particular? Did you like wine?”

“I like wine,” I replied. “I couldn’t tell what a good wine is or not, but I drink it.”

Silas stifled a laugh before asking, “Do you prefer red or white?”

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