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For example, there’s a new affordable housing unit going up in my dad’s district, and a lot of the wealthier residents in that area are up in arms. They’re theoretically liberal progressives, but when it comes down to ideals versus reality, they’re total NIMBYs. Their lifestyles (and more important, their property values) can’t and won’t be jeopardized by the addition of affordable housing right next door.
So issues like that have really captured my interest, and the last week here has been a rush of work, work, and more work. I’ve thrown myself into several projects, offering to do the smallest tasks, and I think my co-workers appreciate it. They know I’m the boss’s daughter, but have also realized that I’m not just looking to coast. I want this to be a real internship where I learn outside of the classroom.
But, Brad’s taking me to a work dinner tonight. He made it clear that it’s going to be a professional dinner where we discuss my assignments, and what I’m hoping to accomplish during my term here. To be honest, I think my lover’s startled at how I’ve thrown myself into the flow of the office, and is also stunned by how well I’ve taken to it too.
Suddenly, a large shadow looms over my keyboard and I look up with a smile.
“Are you ready to go?” my lover drawls. Brad’s absolutely gorgeous in a dark blue suit and snow white shirt that shows off his bronzed tan. His black hair is brushed off his forehead, and I have the urge to press a kiss to the corner of that mobile mouth, but I resist of course.
“Yes.” I stand, smiling. “We’re going to Hooligan’s down the street right? I’ll put on my jacket.”
He nods, but then says, “I’ll drive us, actually.”
I pause. “Just down the street?”
His jaw twitches. “Change of plans, sweetheart. Hooligan’s is too busy and loud for us to talk, so I found a better place.”
I nod, my heart beginning to race.
“Oh yes, of course.”
With that, we take the lift down to the garage, and sure enough, his sedan is parked to the right. Once we’ve exited the garage, he turns on the radio and keeps it just loud enough so we can’t talk. It’s okay, and to be honest, it’s comfortable in the vehicle. I feel like we’re in our own little bubble, and relax against the leather seat, leaning back against the headrest.
“So do I get to guess where we’re going?” I ask playfully.
He stares straight ahead at the wheel.
“You’ll never guess, honey. Just wait for it.” I giggle and then let out a gasp as we cross a bridge into Brooklyn. Oh wow, we’re leaving Manhattan! But then, my eyes go wide when he pulls up in front of a beautiful brownstone near Borough Hall because this is not what I expected for a work dinner. Instead, the Chateau Elyse is one of the most romantic restaurants in the city, and as if to prove my point, a trellis of rose vines decorates the door. The front stoop is high, and Brad takes my elbow while handing his keys to the valet.
“Brad,” I whisper as we make our way up. “Are you sure this is where you want to go?”
His blue eyes gleam.
“I didn’t want any of our co-workers to see us, and this seemed like the place to keep our rendezvous private,” he growls. I can’t help but smile giddily as he escorts me into the restaurant, his large palm burning against the small of my backs.
Inside, a maître d’ dressed in black and white bows from the waist while practically clicking his heels.
“Mr. Landon,” he greets. “So good to see you again.”
Brad nods while I look around in awe because the restaurant is breathtaking. The lights are low in the dining area, and there are candles strategically placed on tabletops, creating an ambience that’s both soothing and elegant. Large bouquets are scattered about, and the booths are filled with elegantly dressed men and women, their heads bent together in intimate conversation.
Meanwhile, we’re escorted to a private table in the back that’s absolutely gorgeous. A pristine tablecloth drapes to the floor, and a small rose bouquet decorates the center of the area. Tea lights flicker gently, and the host practically hums with anticipation while pouring ice water into crystal goblets.
“Your waiter will be with you shortly,” he says graciously before bowing and backing away. I smile and sigh, looking around the room again, taking it all in. This is like a fairytale and I giggle while meeting Brad’s eyes. “So, do you take all of your interns out to places like this?”
For the first time in a while, he relaxes and grins, flashing even white teeth. “Stop, Katy. You know this is different.”
“How is it different?” I tease.
