Page 79 of Daring Destiny
I’m exactly where I want to be.
thirty-two
Brennan
A Bit Later
Ican’tbelieveI’veheld it together for so long.
Tonight’s the big night and my heart is thumping so loud, I’m surprised Astrid can’t see it through my shirt.
She and I sit on a private lanai at Spago at the Four Seasons in Wailea, where we’re staying. The warm Maui breeze drifts through the air carrying the scent of plumeria and sea salt. We made the sunset and it’s stunning. The sky is painted in shades of pink and orange. The waves are a gentle, soothing soundtrack in the background.
I can’t take my eyes off Astrid.
She sits across from me. Candlelight flickers and highlights the warm glow on her bronze skin. Of course she looks divine in a white, off-the-shoulder sundress, which flows softly over her frame. It hugs her in all the desirable places, showing off her tan and delicate cleavage. Gold jewelry—a dainty necklace and bracelet catch the light. The ocean breeze teases loose a strand of her hair from her low ponytail.
She’s radiant underneath the Hawaiian stars.
Tonight, everything should be perfect. I’ve planned every detail, including the meal. The waiters are discreet yet attentive. The setting is flawless and I’ve never been this nervous in my life.
But I’m ready.
I’m sure.
The appetizer course arrives, Bigeye Ahi Poke Cones, which are crisp tempura shells filled with a mix of raw tuna marinated in sesame, miso, and a hint of ginger. Astrid picks one up and takes a small, delicate bite. Her eyes light up. “These are almost too pretty to eat, but holy hell are they good.”
I feel a sense of relief wash over me. So far, so good.
“Wait for what’s next,” I say before downing mine in two bites.
We move on to Hotate Scallop Crudo. Thin slices of scallop with a tangy lime vinaigrette, topped with slivers of Fresno chili. Astrid closes her eyes as she tastes it, savoring every bite. Watching her enjoy what I’ve ordered makes me feel so happy.
It’s all I want to do. Make her happy. My new focus. Myforeverfocus.
“You’re spoiling me.” She opens her eyes to catch my gaze. “I could get used to this.”
I smile happily. “That’s the idea.”
Each course feels like a step closer to a moment I’ve been planning for weeks. The Seafood Red Thai Coconut Curry is next—a fragrant, spicy mix of Kaua’i prawns, Mahi Mahi, and scallops in a rich coconut broth.
Astrid takes a spoonful and her eyes widen with delight. “Brennan, this is amazing. How did you plan this?”
“I’ve got my ways.” I wink at her.
She laughs heartily, filling me with pure happiness. I’ve missed seeing her this relaxed and joyful. Like all the times we played pool at The Zoo. Over the past year we’ve had too much stress and now it all seems worth it. Everything is falling into place.
As the evening progresses, the courses keep coming. Broiled Miso Marinated Walu, a tender and flaky white fish balanced with a hint of sesame and fresh cucumber. Next, a glazed Gouchujang Pork Shank melts in our mouths.
Astrid leans back in her chair, content. “I don’t think I can eat another bite.” She pats her flat stomach. “And, I don’t want this night to end.”
“Good.” I signal to the server. “We’re not quite done.”
He returns, carrying a tray with one final course. A Chocolate Porter Cake, which is close to what Astrid ordered for my birthday. This version is dark-chocolate cake soaked in porter beer, layered with semi-sweet ganache. It’s decadent. Almost sinful.
When Astrid sees it, her eyes light up. I know she felt bad about bringing a similar version to my family gathering, but I’ve been obsessed with it. So fucking good.
“You’re something else, B,” she beams. “I don’t care how full I am. We’re finishing this.”