Page 13 of Forbidden Love
She tilts her head slightly, studying me. “Beautiful. But I have to ask—why are you so secretive with your work? Why not be upfront about what you’re doing?”
I tense, the question hitting too close to home. “Sometimes, less information makes life easier. It’s not about hiding anything—it’s about protecting the bigger picture.”
She fiddles with a necklace before averting her gaze and sighing. “I suppose I can understand that. Sometimes, the bigger picture is all that matters.”
We fall into a comfortable silence, the atmosphere settling into a rhythm that is natural and unforced. The attraction is still there, simmering beneath the surface, but it’s warmer and voluntary now. Is she ready for me?
As we finish our drinks, my brain races for somewhere else to bring her after the dinner. This night must continue. There’s so much more I want to learn about her, and there are a few more things I should share about myself. But the burden of my secrets presses down on me and reminds me of the walls I’ve built.
“Maya. I like you a lot. I want to get to know you. The real you.”
She studies me, her eyes softening. “I’d like that too.”
This is the moment. The point of no return. I could keep my distance and guard the walls I’ve built. Or I could take the risk, let her in, and see where it leads.
I reach for her hand across the table. Our fingers touch, and the contact sends a jolt through me. The chemical attraction is there, and it’s not only my imagination. She senses it, too.
Suddenly, a phone rings, but the ringtone isn’t mine.
She fishes her phone from her purse, glances at it, and slips it back in.
A surge of heat ripples through me, but it retreats when the waiter approaches the table again. The food is here, and it’s about as underwhelming as I expected. Small portions, too much garnish, and not nearly enough flavor. We stare at our plates, where food resembles art rather than something to consume.
Maya pokes at her dish, raising an eyebrow. “Is this even food? Or did they just throw some leaves and flowers on a plate and call it dinner?”
I chuckle, taking a tiny bite. “I’m pretty sure this is rabbit food.”
She laughs. “I didn’t realize I was signing up for a salad with a side of salad.”
I keep a straight face. “Well, I was thinking we could detox together. You know, cleanse ourselves with overpriced greens.”
Maya laughs, shaking her head. “Please, I’d rather take my chances with a greasy burger.”
I smile, grateful for the way she’s making light of the situation. “You’re telling me you’re not a fan of edible flowers? That’s, like, the best part.”
“Oh, totally.” She rolls her eyes. “Nothing says ‘fancy’, like chewing on a petal.”
We exchange amused glances, and the pressure evaporates.
As the waiter clears our plates, Maya squints at me. “So, what made you pick this place?”
I shrug and try to sound casual. “I wanted to show you I’m open to new experiences.”
She raises an eyebrow, clearly not buying it. “Uh-huh. Or maybe you’re just wanting to impress me?”
I chuckle, shaking my head. “If I wanted to impress you, I would’ve picked somewhere a little more… traditional.”
Her shoulders drop and her face shows disappointment. “Fair point.”
Could my brother, Zack, have been right? Does she want to be impressed by a man of status, or is she fine with Dave, the construction guy?
After the server brings the check, the air shifts.
I must have this woman. Tonight, I will claim her as mine. Damn the consequences. I fold my napkin and set it on the table. “Want to get out of here?”
Her eyes search mine, and for a moment, I think she’ll say no. But then she agrees, a small smile playing on her lips. “Yeah, let’s go.”
We leave the restaurant and head toward the Sterling fountains, the perfect match to the quiet, intimate dinner we had.