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Luke looked around the warm and cozy restaurant. “I love the vibes here already.”
A minute later, Carmen walked up to the hostess stand. She was a thin woman with graying black hair pulled up into a bun.
“Oh, my goodness, Emma! You’ve stayed away too long!” Carmen said, her voice laced with excitement.
Emma flashed her a dazzling smile. “I know. I have. I’m happy to be back though.”
Carmen glanced over at Luke, raising her eyebrows just like her brother. She looked back at Emma and smiled. “You know, you are glowing! I don’t know if I’ve ever seen you look so happy.” She turned to Luke. “I can see why.”
“Aww. Thank you,” Emma said warmly, “This is Luke. He’s new to Hadley Cove.”
Carmen shook his hand and gave him a flirtatious smile. “What a catch! And easy on the eyes too.” She leaned toward Emma. “I call dibs on this one if you decide you don’t like him anymore.”
Emma laughed, playfully hitting Carmen’s arm. “Oh, I know he’s a catch.”
“Well, it’s lucky you came in tonight because we have some wonderful specials from the chef. Let me find the hostess, and she’ll get you seated.
“Is your terrace open?” Emma asked.
“It is, but no one is sitting out there yet. It’s still early.”
“Well, we’ll sit out there if that’s alright.”
“For you, anything!”
As Carmen walked away, Emma and Luke remained standing, holding hands. Emma felt a surge of joy and excitement, but also a twinge of uncertainty. She couldn’t believe she was here with someone new, someone who made her feel so alive.
.
A few minutes later, they were shown to their table on the terrace, with a breathtaking view of the ocean. Waves rose and fell in a soothing rhythm, their white crests crashing against the shore in a spray of foam. Seagulls soared overhead, their calls blending with the distant sound of boats and jet skis. The afternoon sun bathed everything in a warm golden light, casting long shadows on the sand and creating a shimmering path on the water’s surface. Emma couldn’t help but feel captivated by the beauty of it all. Luke held her hand as they sat down, and she felt a sense of peace sweep over her.
As she daydreamed about a future with Luke, walks on the beach, lazy Sundays curled up together, and whispered promises of forever, Emma felt a flicker of doubt. The memories of Chad’s betrayal lingered, casting a shadow of uncertainty over Emma’s heart. She remembered the nights spent crying, the endless questions that kept her awake. She didn’t want to make the same mistakes again, and the fear of repeating the past held her back. She longed for certainty, for a sign that would guide her in the right direction.
She genuinely liked Luke, but wasn’t sure if she was ready for something more serious. How could she ever truly know?
Chapter 18
Luke
Luke’s smile never left his face as he listened to Carmen and Emma chat at their table. Carmen’s humor was contagious, and the sound of Emma’s laughter was music to his ears. Earlier he had hesitated before taking Emma’s hand as they walked through the restaurant, feeling a twinge of nervousness about how she might react if it was too bold of a move. But he felt relieved seeing the boost of confidence it had given Emma and was glad he had taken the chance.
“Does your nephew still perform here?” Emma asked Carmen, taking a sip of her water.
“Oh, yes! Antonio is here tonight. Didn’t you see him? Well, I guess they aren’t playing live yet. This is just a record we have playing over the speakers right now. But they’ll be starting soon, so if you have any requests, better get them in now!”
Emma chuckled. “I’m sure he’ll play all of my old favorites.”
“If I tell him you’re here, he certainly will. I’ll bring you two some drinks on the house while peruse the menu.”
“Thanks Carmen! Must be our lucky day.” A smile lingered on Emma’s face as she picked up the menu and began scanning the options.
“It’s always good to see an old friend.” Carmen flashed a grin before making her way to the kitchen.
“So, what do you recommend?” Luke asked, looking over Emma.
“Everything. Well, at least the vegan dishes.”
“What are they? Can you show me?”
