I was excited to see Remy though. I had blocked off a Friday night for him and that wasn’t something I did lightly. Fridays were money nights, so the fact that I even made space for him meant something.
I was hoping for the best. Good conversation, great food, and a chance to get to know what lie behind that handsome exterior, kind eyes, and calm demeanor he carried so naturally. However, I was prepared for the worst—mainly me cussing him the fuck out. I was praying it didn't come to that.
Ronnie was occupied with her client so I was able to walk out the brothel without her asking me where I was going. I would update her afterwards. I listened to some piano instrumentals as I drove, in an attempt to quiet my mind. Five minutes away from the destination, my nerves started fluttering and my heartbeat quickened.
It didn't make sense.
I could fulfill any man's wildest desires, but this date had me nervous. Imagine that.
As soon as I pulled up and parked, I saw Remy stepping out. I exhaled the nerves as he approached with an easy smile. Helooked so good, but it wasn’t even just the outfit—black button-up, fitted just right, tucked into slacks. It was him. The way he carried himself, the warmth. It felt different.
He noticed me about to open my door and jogged over, hand already reaching for it. “Aht-aht, I got that,” he said, opening it for me and extending his hand. I smiled and placed my hand in his, letting him guide me out of the car. "There she is. Just as beautiful as ever."
I rolled my eyes lightly but couldn’t stop the smile on my face. "You're such a charmer."
"I've been told," he lifted my hand and placed a gentle kiss on top. "I'm so happy you're here, Gianna," he added, voice softer. "Thank you."
I felt my heart flutter a bit. "You're welcome."
My hand still in his, he closed my door and led me towards the entrance. With a smile, he slowly opened the door. My nose was hit with the smell first—something smelled delicious. Next the ambiance. Candles lit all around. Some real and others were faux flickering tea light candles.
And the floor…I slowed my steps a little. Red and white petals, scattered across the floor like he had gone out of his way to make sure not a single spot was missed. I stayed quiet as he guided me in, trying not to smile too hard, but when I looked up and saw the balloon arch, I lost it. “Not the baby shower balloon arch,” I said, laughing.
Remy groaned, dragging a hand down his face. "I know right," he said shaking his head. "One of my regular's granddaughter, decorated for me. Apparently balloon arches are her thing." He glanced at me, a little sheepish. "It's corny, I know. My bad."
"No," I said, shaking my head. I squeezed his fingers a little looking into his eyes. "I love it. It's sweet. Thank you."
His shoulders relaxed. "I'm glad you like it, beautiful. You're welcome." He led me further in where a candle table was set. In the center was gorgeous bouquet of pink and white roses and next to it a small silver gift bag. I looked over at him, with a curious smile. "That's for me?" I asked.
"It is." Leading me to my seat, he let go of my hand to pull out my chair. I sat and pushed myself up. "It's not a bag of diamonds, not that you don't deserve it," he began. "But it's something I think you'll appreciate. At least I hope so." He sounded a little nervous. Picking up the bag, he set it in front of me.
Eyeing him, curiously, I reached in and pulled it out. It was a menu to his restaurant. I looked at him, brows furrowed.
"Open it," he prompted gently.
I did. A check lay inside. My face flushed with heat. The first thing I thought was that it was a check for my services. I looked up at him, nostrils flaring and eyes narrowed.
"It's not like that," he said quickly reading my expression. "It's a check for the revenue thatThe Giannahas made so far."
"Wait—Seriously?" Picking it up, I gasped slightly at the number. "7,500?" My eyes widened, looking back at him. "Damn how much are you pricing this cake for?"
"It's a reasonable price," he laughed lightly. "But it's been doing extremely well. The highest rated dessert on the menu so far," he nodded. "So good in fact—" he flipped to the last page of the menu and pointed, "that I decided to make it a permanent item on the menu."
My mouth dropped open in shock. "Oh my God. That's so dope, Remy." I pressed my hand to my heart, genuinely touched. "This is an amazing gesture, but you didn't have to do that." I waved the check. "Orthis. That was your creation."
"But inspired byyou." He stared into my eyes making my stomach flutter again. "I want you to have it. Matter fact, I insist. I'm not taking it back."
I felt my eyes mist over a little by the sweet gesture. I've had men throw money at me but the intention behind this meant more than he knew. Standing, I reached up and wrapped my arms around his neck, pulling him down into a hug.
His body stiffened for just a second before his arms wrapped around my waist and pulled me closer. I felt his body relax against mine. He exhaled long and slow as he loosened.
"Thank you so much," I murmured. "This is the nicest thing someone has ever done for me."
"You deserve this and more, Gianna," he said against my neck.
We hugged a moment longer before gently pulling apart, our eyes locked on each other. Something was happening. I felt it. And by the look in his eyes, he felt it too.
He exhaled, shoulders dropping. "Sit down, beautiful. Let me pour you some wine and go get our dinner."
