Page 69 of Tasting Innocence
Chapter Twenty-Seven
With the aircleared with Renzo, me and Violet make plans for our first official date. We’ve been talking now for a few weeks, hanging out at my house, and on the phone at all hours of the night, but now we can actually go out.
After dinner at Table 13, we’re going to see a movie, and then we’ll be heading back to my house since my dad won’t be home tonight.
I put on a pair of navy blue chinos and a cream-colored henley, then send Violet a text letting her know I’m heading over.
When I get to the front door I give it a few knocks, and soon after, Mr. Hayes pulls it open. This is the first time I’m seeing Vi’s parents as her boyfriend and not as Zo’s best friend.
“Hey, Mr. H.”
“Dex. How are you?”
I grin at him. “Can’t complain. I’m here to get Violet for...our date.”
Mr. Hayes smiles, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “Yeah, I heard. Come on in, son.”
I release a breath, hoping it wasn’t too audible, and follow him inside. Mrs. Hayes waves at me from the kitchen, her smile warm and inviting.
“Hi, Mrs. H.”
She wipes her hands on a towel and flutters around the counter, heading my way. “Well, don’t you look nice.”
I smile. “I guess I can’t spend the whole summer in cut off shirts and shorts.”
“Violet’s still getting ready. You can have a seat on the couch.”
After plopping myself on one end of the loveseat, I find both sets of eyes on me.
“So, you two are dating,” Mr. Hayes says.
“Violet told me a little about it last week. I’m assuming all is well with you and Lorenzo.”
My lips draw up on each end. “Yes, ma’am. Everything’s okay now.” I direct my attention to Mr. Hayes. “I really like Violet, and we’ve been hanging out for a few weeks, but today will be our first official date.” When neither of them say anything, I nervously continue. “I know this might be weird for you, but I care about Violet a lot, and I’m hoping it doesn’t change our relationship. I love you guys and appreciate everything you’ve done for me over the years.”
Mrs. H waves her hand through the air while coming around to sit next to me. “Dex, we love you. We always have, and we still do. Don’t worry about that. Just treat our little girl right, okay?”
“I will,” I answer with a smile. “Thank you.”
“Are you guys harassing him already?” Violet asks, strutting into the living room.
My jaw nearly hits the floor when I see her. She’s wearing a dress the color she’s named after, with a slim belt around her waist. I don’t know enough about fashion to tell you the type, but it fits her perfectly—not too snug, sleeveless, and stopping right above her knees. With nude-colored heels, she’s added a few inches to her short frame.
“Nobody’s harassing,” her mom says with a smile. “You look beautiful.”
I stand up and wipe my hands on my pants, giving her a thorough once-over, my tongue darting out to wet my lips before they form a lascivious grin that her parents can’t see.
“Yes, breathtaking. As always.”
Red blooms across her cheeks. “Thanks. You clean up nice.”
“Where you kids headed?” her dad asks. “Need some money?”
Violet rolls her eyes. “Dad, come on.”
He looks at me. “Oh. Right.” Mr. Hayes chuckles. “Well, have fun and be safe.”
Violet takes my hand, rushing for the door. “We will. Thanks.”