Allen watched as Heather twirled the pasta on her plate. Pictures and paintings decorated the walls, the lights hung low, while people murmured and talked around them. Robust wines and spices charged the air. Allen’s eyebrows etched together as he stared at Heather. She seemed out of sorts since their painting class, but he didn’t ask questions. Instead, he would put a smile on her face.
“The food okay?” he asked, cutting into his chicken Marsala.
Heather took a sip from her raspberry lemonade. “I’m okay.”
“You don’t like your painting?”
She gave a smile. “I did. I recognized it as a cup.”
He choked, and she patted his back. They both laughed.
“Sorry,” she said.
“Don’t be.” He took a sip of his iced tea. “That’s what I like most about you.”
Her nose wrinkled. “Really? I’ve been told I’m too blunt.”
“You’re honest and it’s refreshing. Too many people tell you what you think you want to hear.”
“I’m working on my filter, but sometimes it comes out without my knowing.”
“I like you. Don’t change, Heather.”
Her smile grew. “This is the first time you’ve said that you like me.”
“I do.”
“I like you too. It’s just…”
“What?” The more Allen spent time with her, the deeper he fell in… was he in love? The last time he loved, it didn’t end well.
Heather touched his hand. “Are you alright?”
“Yeah, I’m good.”
“Allen, I didn’t mean to ruin the mood. I’m only trying to be honest. I think if we take this slow, I’ll be okay. Just…”
“Just what?” he asked.
“Don’t disappear on me.” She shook her head. “I never let things get this far. I’ve tried to… protect myself.”
He scooted closer to her in the booth. “I’ve done the same thing, but it’s been…” He blew out his cheeks. “Lonely.”
Heather’s eyes softened even more. “I have been too.” She released her grip from his covering her face with her hands. “Why?”
Allen draped an arm around her shoulders. “Heather, I didn’t mean—”
“No, it’s not you. It’s me. This never happens to me, and when I say never, I mean never. I’m careful about things like this, but then I meet you and I can’t stop thinking about you. You’re thoughtful and kind. You’ve done nothing but take care of me with my knee…” She looked back over at him. “Tonight has been so perfect. Are you trying to…”
“What?” he asked.
Heather rolled her shoulders back as if to regain her composure. “Nothing, I’m rambling.”
He stroked her chin turning her face to his. “You are the most interesting woman I’ve ever met.”
She grinned. “Then you need to get out more.”
“Probably, but I like what I see here.”