However, her hand on my bicep sends a warm sensation through me, and I’m acutely aware of her closeness. There’s something about her touch, even as light as it is, that sets off a flurry of nerves inside me. I glance at her, and she’s looking ahead, seemingly unaware of the effect she has on me.
Kinda glad about that, to be honest.
She catches me looking and rolls her eyes. “Don’t mind me, just embracing my new life as forever sore.”
I clear my throat, trying to refocus. “Well, hopefully, tonight will be less Hunger Games and more ... tranquil dinner date. I promise, no surprise yoga or dance-offs.”
She snickers under her breath, the soft glow of the café lights reflecting in her eyes. “I’m holding you to that.”
As we walk inside, the host greets us with a warm smile. “Table for two?”
“Yes, please,” I reply with a quick nod.
The inside is bathed in soft lighting, creating an inviting atmosphere. It’s perfect for a first date, even if I do say so myself.
We’re led to a small, intimate table near a window overlooking the lake. The view is spectacular—the vast expanse of water shimmering against the warmth of the sunset.
Carlie’s eyes drift out to the view.
“Wow, this is stunning,” she murmurs, her attention momentarily captivated by the scenery.
“I thought you might like it,” I say, pulling out her chair for her. “I’ve heard great things about their menu, too.”
“Thank you,” she says, as I help her sit.
Despite her earlier jokes about her soreness, I can tell she’s genuinely struggling a bit. I make a mental note to keep things slow and easy for her tonight. If we were past the first date, I’d even offer to run her a hot bath and give her a massage.
The thought has me sitting down quickly, as I shake the image away.
Once we’re seated, a server approaches and hands us menus.
“Can I start you off with something to drink?” he asks.
Carlie orders a glass of white wine, and I go for a craft beer from Jaded Brews. Gotta admit, I’m happy for my brother. It’s good to see his stuff in other restaurants in the area.
After the waiter leaves, I should be looking over the menu, but instead, I find myself looking at her, still somewhat in awe of how effortlessly gorgeous she is.
Her red hair is like liquid fire as it cascades over her shoulders. The dim light of the restaurant complements her features, casting soft shadows that add an air of mystique.
She catches me looking at her and tucks a strand of hair behind her ear with a curious expression. “What?”
I shake my head. “Nothing. I was just?—”
“Here we are. Are you two ready to order?” the server interrupts, setting our drinks down in front of us.
We both blink hard, breaking our gaze from each other to face the server.
“I’d love to try the smoked pork shank, please,” Carlie says, handing the menu to him, and then turning to me.
I glance down at the menu in my hand. “I, uh?—”
“I’m sorry, Adam. I should have waited,” Carlie mutters, shaking her head. “I thought you were ready.”
“No, it’s cool. I’ll have the seared duck,” I say, handing him my menu as well.
He tips his head and stalks off, leaving us again in comfortable silence.
Carlie takes a tentative sip of her wine and I reach for my beer.