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There's an undeniable connection between us, one that's been growing since we met.
And for the first time in years, my cheeks ache from smiling.
On a whim, I decide to ask her on a proper date to explore this budding attraction.
When she returns, I muster up my courage.
"Emily, may I take you out for dinner tonight?"
To my utter surprise, she looks horrified.
"Absolutely not!" she blurts out, her expression one of sheer panic.
I'm taken aback, a mix of confusion and disappointment washing over me.
Did I misread the situation entirely?
“I’m sorry? Is the thought of joining me for dinner so terrible?” I ask.
Emily starts waving her hands in the air and shaking her head like she’s mentally screaming, mayday, mayday, mayday.
“No, I mean… Yes! I… Um.”
Her face is red again, but this time it’s not so cute. I frown at her, wondering why she’s so worked up over a simple question.
“I guess we could order pizza…” she suggests.
I lift a brow. “So, you will join me for dinner… so long as it’s…”
“Here,” Emily says, her face flushing once more.
She beams at me. “Yes. I mean…this is a tiny town, there’s really only one place to eat, and the last time I was there I was sick for days.”
“Oh, really?” I ask, observing her closely. Her nostrils flare, and she’s scratching her arm, guilt written all over her body. “What did you eat?”
“What did I eat?” she parrots, her voice higher than usual.
I take a step toward her. “Yes. That made you sick…”
She chews her bottom lip, and her gaze moves all over the place, like she’s hoping to find answers somewhere in the room. “The, um, shrimp––no, lobster lasagna. With a side of… crab fries.”
“Crab fries?” I repeat.
I take another step toward this enigmatic woman, wondering why she keeps lying to me. “You’re not very good at this, you know?”
Emily jumps, her eyes wide as she meets my stare. “Not good at…. what?”
“Lying,” I say. “Do not forget, I value honesty more than anything. Do not lie to me, Emily. If you don’t want to go on a date with me, then just say it.”
Her breaths are coming short and fast now, as she blinks rapidly while I tower over her.
Then her shoulders drop in defeat. “You know what, I’d love to go for dinner with you.”
I grin. “Wonderful. I’ll be sure to avoid any seafood… just in case.”
Emily flashes me a nervous smile. “Good idea.”
EMILY
