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Liam looks stunning. There he stands, dressed in the most impeccably tailored suit, you would think that Zeus made it himself. His hair looks soft and silky, his smile charming as usual, while his blue eyes sparkle with amusement and affection. My heartbeat speeds up as he smiles at me.
The man has my complete attention standing there, holding a bouquet of flowers in his hand and wearing a look of absolute delight on his face. Though I have seen him a million times before, it somehow feels like the first time. It must be the new haircut and I have to admit, the effect is striking.
His gaze makes me tingle all over with anticipation, and there is a warm feeling blooming in my chest. He steps closer, his fingers brushing against my bare arms as I hold the door open for him. His cologne is intoxicating. I inhale the scent slowly, savoring the sensation, unable to believe the fact that Liam’s the reason I’m feeling this way.
He holds up the bouquet of flowers and presents them to me with a gentle smile. “Here you go. I hope you like roses.” He says softly, his voice raspy.
“Thanks.” I murmur shyly, my hands moving to gently grasp the bouquet. Our fingertips brush together and my breath catches ever so slightly, as does his.
Christie clears her throat loudly, breaking the moment, and I couldn’t be more grateful for it.
“You two have a long night ahead of you. Let me help you with those.” She says, taking the flowers from me and smiling slyly.
“Thanks,” I breathe, watching as she disappears into the kitchen, leaving me alone with Liam. He shifts awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck and averting his eyes away from mine, as I stare at him helplessly. This is so embarrassing.
“So…are you ready?” He finally asks after a few moments of silence.
I nod and smile. “Sure, let’s go.”
I can feel Christie’s gaze drilling holes into the back of my skull when we step out the door, so I turn and glare at her.
“Have fun!” She sings, winking at me before closing the door.
Liam takes the lead, opening the car door for me as I climb into the passenger seat and buckle myself in, feeling ridiculously embarrassed. When we’re sitting comfortably, he starts the engine and pulls away from the curb, our eyes never once leaving each other.
****
The ride is filled with silence. Neither of us seems to know quite what to say. I can sense Liam’s discomfort and it’s obvious he’s battling the need to speak. We end up staying silent for the duration of the journey, only exchanging small words here and there and stealing glances.
Finally, Liam pulls up in front of a luxurious restaurant and stops the car in the front, handing the keys to the valet before rushing over to help me out of the passenger side. When we approach the entrance, he pushes the door open and we both walk into the cool, dimly lit space. Glowing lanterns dangle from the ceiling, casting intricate lace-like patterns on the walls, as if we've entered a secret garden at twilight.
Tables dressed in crisp, white linen are adorned with flickering candles ensconced in antique silver holders. Rose petals, like crimson confetti, are strewn artfully across the tablecloth, their fragrant presence intensifying the air's intoxication.
The melodies of a live acoustic guitarist blend harmoniously with the soft murmur of hushed conversations, creating a symphony of romance that envelops us. The tables are set for intimate dining, candles lighting our path as we walk down the hall. The air is heavy with a delicious aroma, something that seems both divine and intoxicating, as we walk towards the table Liam has reserved for us.
Again, I don’t miss the gentlemanly gesture he shows when he pulls out my chair and helps me sit.
“Thanks.” I whisper, looking up at him and smiling shyly. The butterflies in my stomach are now wreaking havoc inside of my rib cage, causing my skin to prickle pleasantly where he touched me.
“You’re welcome. Please tell me you like this place. I had a hard time picking.” He says, looking incredibly apologetic, but I try to ignore the slight hint of insecurity in his voice.
I glance around again. The decorations here are gorgeous, and everything feels…romantic. A good choice, but it’s the right setting for a date not a casual dinner with an employee.
“It’s perfect. Thanks, Liam.” I reply, my lips curling into a sincere smile.
The waiter appears a few seconds later and takes our order. Once we make our selections, he bows his head politely and leaves the two of us to ourselves.
Neither of us says anything while we eat. All of our concentration is focused on keeping our eyes on our respective meals, although I catch him stealing occasional glances in my direction.
“So..” Liam finally says, clearing his throat. “I’ve been waiting to ask…”
“Yeah?”
“Why does it feel like you hate me?” He asks bluntly, his gaze piercing into mine.
“Huh?” I mumble dumbly, completely caught off guard by his question.
“Up until yesterday, we’ve been at each other’s throats. First you steal my meal at the food truck, then there's the endless banter at the office.”
