“I bet San Angelo is a baby town compared to what you were used to,” I say, chuckling around my glass of wine. It wasn’t my preference, but he ordered a bottle for the table.
“Yes, but I enjoy it. How long have you been working there?” he asks.
“Four years. Started right after I graduated from nursing school. I did my clinicals there and knew I wanted to stay close to my family, so I spoke with my director before I even finished and secured a position before I had my certifications.”
“Wow, that’s amazing. Good for you.”
I smile, and we talk for a few more minutes before our food finally arrives. After we dig in, he tells me about his family. Two older sisters and one younger brother. He also slips in details about his shitty ex-boyfriend and the amazing gay scene in Austin. It all suddenly makes perfect sense.
“So you’re…?”
“Gay? Yeah. Have been all my life.”
I chuckle and sip my wine.
“Shit, you thought this was a date-date, didn’t you? Sorry, but you’re not actually my type. I probably should’ve mentioned that before now.” He grins and shakes his head. “You just reminded me of one of my best friends at home and seemed cool, so I invited you to join me.”
“No, it’s fine. I shouldn’t have assumed. But I’m actually relieved. I’ve already had two men fighting for me. Three would’ve just been too much.”
He lifts a brow. “Oh, lucky girl. Well, if you know of any single gay men who aren’t assholes in the area, let me know. I refuse to use Grindr again.”
Chuckling, I pick up the dessert menu. “I don’t blame you, and if I find any hot gay cowboys, I’ll be happy to play matchmaker.”
“You have to try the banana pudding. It’s the best I’ve had in a long time,” he tells me once we’ve finished our main course. He orders us two along with another bottle of wine.
Don’t mind if I do.
He’s not drinking much, though. He’s had less than a glass.
Right as our pudding arrives, Aiden’s cell goes off. He excuses himself before reading the message.
“Shit. I’m so sorry, Hadleigh. I have to run to the hospital.” He puts his napkin on the table before typing out a response. “There’s been a huge accident, and it’s all hands on deck.”
My eyes widen in surprise, though I understand things like this happen. “Oh, no worries. I can Uber home.”
“Seriously, I apologize for the abruptness. Stay and enjoy yourself, please. I’ll pay the tab and for your ride home.”
I open my mouth to tell him it’s no big deal when he hands me his credit card and leans down to kiss my cheek. “Thank you for a lovely evening.”
“Good luck,” I say, and he heads for the exit.
Not wanting this dessert to go to waste, I grab his plate and dive in. The server comes back around, and I ask for the rest to be put in a box, then I pay the check. Instead of waiting for my ride outside, I go to the bar and order a Jack and Coke.
Harper: Waiting for an update!
I read my screen and blow out a breath.
Hadleigh: He got an emergency call and had to go to the hospital. I’m at the bar drinking away my sorrows.
Harper: Because he left??
Hadleigh: No! Because I’m stupid.
Harper: LOL, you are not. Stay and enjoy a few drinks. You deserve it.
Yes, I do.
Hadleigh: Don’t worry, I am. He left me his card. I plan to drink until someone has to carry me over their shoulders and haul my ass home.
Harper: Umm…should I be worried about you? I can come get you if you want.
Hadleigh: Nah.
Harper: Okay, well let me know if you change your mind. How was the dinner going before he left?
Hadleigh: Honestly, it was fine. We talked and ate, like any other normal date, but I found out he’s gay.
Harper: What? I thought you said this was a date?
Hadleigh: Well, he never asked me out like on a date-date. He mentioned wanting to see The Nutcracker and said he didn’t wanna go alone. Then once I agreed, he suggested dinner and drinks afterward. So yeah, it sounded like one in theory, but he just wanted some company.
Harper: Was it awkward after he told you?
Hadleigh: No, I was relieved, and we started having more fun. One less straight man to disappoint!
Harper: Well, the night isn’t completely wasted. Who knows, maybe you can find someone else to warm your bed tonight?
Hadleigh: OMG, that’s the last thing I need.
Harper: Hah! Or the ONLY thing you need.
Hadleigh: My head is such a mess right now. I just want to talk to Knox.
Harper: Well, you should enjoy all the free drinks you can and know that it will all work out the way it should. I have a feeling your night could still end on a happy note.