Thorn in My Side (Bunch-A-Blooms 2)

“I’d like that too.”

It’s a victory I’m going to celebrate.

“I’ll pick you up in say an hour?”

“Okay. What should I wear?”

“Whatever you’ll like. We’ll keep it casual this time.”

I sip on my Scotch. She’s not the only one who’s unaccustomed with dating. I once had a list of go to places when I wanted to wine and dine, but none of that fits Olive. It makes everything new, and exciting. She’s already got me working for it. I begin to browse through my phone for ideas. I never do anything in halves, but extravagance would turn her off. Olive Bateman, you’re an enigma I aim to figure out.

A smart man does his research, so when I choose to get her flowers, I went to Bunch-A-Blooms. Willow steered me toward a modest bouquet of yellow tulips, purple Irises, and blue hyacinth with a wink and a smile. Apparently, the wedding planning is teaching me a thing or two, because a year ago I wouldn’t have been able to name the flowers. I told Willow, this was an I’m sorry bundle to make up for being short with her during the week, but I’m not sure she believed me. I knock on the door to her apartment and take in the sturdy structure. It’s a nice building in a decent part of town.

She opens the door, and I hold up the bundle of blooms.

“For you.”

“Luka! Thank you.” She brings them to her nose and inhales. “Please, come in while I set these in water.”

I step inside and admire the curve of her rear in the short dark blue shorts that show off most of her long legs. She has a cream colored shirt rolled up at the sleeves and tucked into the cuffed linen shorts. It’s a warm day, and she’s taking full advantage of the weather.

“Are you going to tell me where we’re going yet?”

“No, but I do hope you like Jazz.”

“You like Jazz music?” she asks shocked.

“Yes. I’ve been an avid collector of Jazz vinyl since I don’t know when. My father introduced me to it, probably in the womb.”

“I never would’ve guessed that.”

“You’re not the only one full of surprises,” I say with a wink.

“I’m pretty boring actually.”

“You’re extraordinary. I don’t know who told you otherwise, but they lied.”

She returns her attention to the flowers she’s arranging.

“We’re going to a place called The Blind Lemon.”

“I’ve never heard of it, before.”

“It’s a bit hidden, but it’s been around since nineteen-sixty-three. They have good live music, great drinks, and a laid back atmosphere.”

“Sounds like my kind of place.”

I smile. “I thought it might be.”

“Lucky guess.”

“I’m an extremely observant man, Olive Bateman.”

She places the crystal vase on a counter in front of a window. “Let me grab my purse, and I’ll be ready to go.”

She’s quick. I like that about her. There’s no fussing about makeup which she doesn’t need or expensive clothing. She comes out with a small brown leather handbag.

“All set.”