AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“You're glowing.” I've been looking forward to this brunch all week.
The moment has arrived to spill the details of my budding romance with Jake, and I'm tongue-tied.
She arches an eyebrow, leaning in with a mischievous grin. “I know that look. Spill it. Who's the guy?”
I bite my lip, cheeks warming. “His name's Jake. We went out last week.”
Scarlett nearly chokes on her coffee. “Wait, you? On a date? I thought you swore off dating after…”
She trails off, not needing to say my ex’s name.
I shrug, fiddling with my napkin. “I know. But there's something about Jake. He's different.”
“Different, how?” Scarlett arches a perfectly shaped brow.
“Well, for starters, he took me bowling.” I laugh.
“Bowling? How charmingly retro.” Scarlett smirks. “And here I thought you were more of a candlelit dinner kind of gal.”
“Usually, yes,” I say, stirring cream into my coffee. “But with Jake, it felt right. Easy, you know? Like I could let my guard down and be myself.”
Scarlett nods slowly. “Okay, I can see the appeal. But isn't he a single dad? Are you ready for that much responsibility?”
I pause, considering her words. It's a valid concern.
“I thought about that too. But seeing him with his daughter, Amber, is part of what drew me to him. He's so caring and attentive.”
“Look at you, all smitten.” Scarlett reaches across the table, squeezing my hand. “You deserve someone who sees how amazing you are.”
A swell of warmth fills my chest. But just as quickly, a flicker of doubt creeps in. I meet Scarlett's gaze.
“For the first time in a long time, I feel like maybe I could be ready. To try, at least. But what if I open myself up and it doesn't work out?”
“It’s normal to feel that way after all the heartbreak and disappointment,. But think of it this way. If you never take a risk, you might miss out. Jake could be the one, and you'll never know if you don't give it a shot.”
What she says resonates, sparking a tiny flame of hope. She's right. I can't let fear hold me back.
Jake is worth taking a chance on, worth opening my heart to. I owe it to myself to see where this could lead.
“I will.”
A smile stretches across my face when I picture Jake's handsome face and how his blue eyes crinkle at the corners when he grins.
“I laugh more when I'm with him. I feel lighter, safe, even. Like I can breathe again after being underwater for so long.”
Scarlett grins, waggling her eyebrows playfully. “I've never seen you this starry-eyed. It looks good on you.”
I lower my head, blushing as a giggle slips out. “Thanks. I needed a little pep talk from my bestie to help me sort through my feelings.”
“Anytime, babe. That's what I'm here for,” Scarlett says with an affectionate wink, popping a bite of flaky croissant into her mouth. “When's your next date with Prince Charming?”
“Next week.” A thrill of anticipation zips through me.
“Oooh, how exciting!” Scarlett practically squeals. “Please tell me you'll wear the little black dress I got you for your birthday. It'll knock his socks off!”
I laugh, shaking my head. “No dress needed. We're going to the zoo.”
“First the bowling alley, now the zoo? Are you sure this guy isn't looking for a babysitter?”
