Page 15 of My XOXO Holidate
“I’m talking about dinner at the Magnolia Hotel since our previous engagement was cut short the last time.”
“Because of the fire and flood.” She scoffs. “It was nice for a while.”
“And quickly turned to disaster.” I clear my throat. “By the way, I looked all over the parking lot for you that night. Somehow, you slipped away from me.”
“I got sucked into a group of people and once I got to the parking lot, I found Mia almost immediately. Although I insisted I was going to the lobby, that wasn’t happening.”
“No, they evacuated the whole place.” I sigh. “I kicked myself for not having my arms wrapped around you.” I shake my head. “That way I wouldn’t have lost you.”
Amelia smiles. Her face lights up. “Well, somehow a miracle did happen, and we reconnected.”
We talk about what we’ve been doing since we graduated high school. Amelia talks about college, her family, and her job as a realtor. I talk a bit about my work, but not enough to give away my status.
If I’m being completely honest, I like Amelia. I always have, but after what Ruby put me through, I’m not ready to share the details of my life with Amelia. I want her to get to know me. The real me. I want her to like me for the man that isn’t a multi-millionaire.
I run my hand across the bare skin of Amelia’s leg. Goose bumps form on her creamy skin that makes my hands ache to touch her. All of her.
I’d like to get a look at what’s under that black dress.
Amelia
Sam is impressive in his dark suit and tie. Looks expensive—not off the rack. He must do well in his company. And his shoes look pricey. Not your department store brand.
He pulls into the hotel’s parking lot and allows the valet to park his car.
As we walk to the front door, Sam rests his hand on the small of my back. He holds the door for me.
Such a gentleman.
We step into the hotel’s dining room and the area is breathtaking. One side has large windows that overlook the city. The center of the room has tables with white tablecloths, and a few booths are against the walls. Soft music plays and the smell of delicious food makes my mouth water.
Sam gives the host our reservation and we’re led to a cozy table for two next to the large windows. The view is phenomenal.
The host pulls out my chair for me. I’m not used to this.
Collin’s idea of a nice evening out usually included pool and beer.
After the host gives us our menus, we’re alone. I don’t look at my menu immediately, because I’m captivated by the beautiful view.
“If you look way over there, you can see the downtown skyline.” Sam points out the window.
“And they have the Marketplace section all lit up.” I turn to face Sam and take a drink from my water goblet. “Does seeing all this make you miss being home?”
Sam opens his menu. “In Cedar Springs? Yes and no, I suppose. I miss my brother, but I’ve made a life for myself in New York and I’m happy there. What about you? Are you happy living in Cedar Springs?”
I nod. “For the most part. It’s home, I guess. My family’s here.” I study the menu.
I let out a gasp when I see the prices of the meals. Sam looks up from his menu.
“Amelia, please get whatever you want. I invited you and I’m paying.”
“We could split the bill.”
What am I saying? Split the bill? Even if I bought the least expensive thing on the menu, I’d practically have to take out a loan.
Sam laughs. “Don’t be ridiculous. I’m treating you tonight, so just relax and enjoy yourself.” He gives my hand a squeeze. “Besides, I owe you for all your hard work selling the house.”
“Well, it isn’t sold yet,” I remind him.