Chapter70
“No you’d not.” I assured her.
I had briefly prepared my family for our unexpected guests, ensuring everyone knew to be gracious
and welcoming. But as it turned out, my caution was unnecessary.
From the moment they joined us, my family enveloped Corwin, Karissa, Keith, and their parents in warmth and hospitality, as if they were long–lost relatives. As the evening unfolded, any initial
awkwardness melted away, replaced by an atmosphere of genuine chatters. By night’s end, it was
impossible to distinguish between our two groups.
As I observed Corwin interacting with his family, I couldn’t help but notice the endearing difference
between his professional demeanor and warm, playful side. His laughter and teasing remarks with
Karissa and his parents revealed his personality I hadn’t seen before.
What caught me off guard, however, were the occasional, fleeting glances he directed my way. They
were short lived, yet unmistakable. Each time, I felt a strange flutter, leaving me perplexed.
Why was he looking at me like that? Was I reading too much into it? Our interactions had always
been strictly professional. Tonight’s dinner might’ve blurred those lines, but I couldn’t shake the
feeling that there was something more behind those glances. But, soon I was pulled back to the task
of effortlessly flowing conversations and clicking pictures.
Willy had once again chosen to spend the night at Sebastian’s, and I’d long since surrendered to her
enthusiasm. She seemed to thrive in the lively atmosphere of her uncle and aunt’s home, where
Sabrina, her cousin, was always eager to play.
I’d pondered the what–ifs of giving Willy a sibling. Would it have brought joy and companionship to
her life, or would it have added deep issues to the thin balance Wilson and I struggled to maintain in
our divorce.
For now, I pushed aside the though and focused on the contentment that filled my heart whenever I
saw Willy’s beaming smile, knowing she was loved and happy, no matter where she chose to spend her nights
Between the loud chattering my mom discreetly pulled me aside, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “You should date this man, he’s single,” she whispered utterly serious.
I felt my face flush, and I glanced around nervously, hoping no one had overheard. “Mom, stop,” I whispered.
Just then, Adelaide and Katrina, caught my eye from across the room. They exchanged a sly glance, and then, in unison, gave me thumbs–up and winks. I coughed horrified, and quickly excused myself.
“Mom, please,” I begged, trying to compose myself. “Not now, okay?”
My mom chuckled, patting my arm. “Just consider it, sweetie. He’s perfect for you.” With a knowing smile, she joined my dad and Theo, leaving me feeling flustered.
I shook my head, wondering what had possessed my family. Corwin was my former boss, for goodness‘ sake!
As the night drew to a close, Corwin’s parents bid their farewells at eleven, expressing gratitude for the dinner party. My parents soon followed, escorting Theo home, leaving Keith, Karissa, and Corwin lingering behind for drinks.
Keith and Karissa exchanged whispers, and with a final hug, they departed, thanking me once more for the warm hospitality. The door closed behind them, leaving Corwin and me alone in the quiet
restaurant.
“I’ll help you close up,” Corwin said, his voice low and thoughtful. “It’s the least I can do after tonight’s incredible dinner and kindness.” Together, we began shutting down the restaurant in
silence.
As we finished locking up the restaurant, we grabbed our coats, and we began the trek to my car, parked a short distance away. Corwin fell into step beside me, matching my pace. The night air of February was eerily cool, snow casted aside from the streets creating a beautifulview of pathway.
The silence between us was surprisingly comfortable, devoid of the usual awkwardness that often accompanied quiet moments with acquaintances. We walked side by side, the only sound being the -soft crunch of his shoes and the clicking of my heels.
I snuck a glance at Corwin, his profile illuminated by the moon’s soft glow. His expression was contemplative, his eyes cast downward. I wondered what occupied his thoughts. As we approached my car, I slowed my pace, sensing my pause he turned to me, his eyes meeting mine.
“Thanks again for tonight,” he expressed his sincere gratitude, “I really appreciate it.”
I smiled, “No need to thank me,” I replied. “It was my pleasure.”
“You seem happy running this restaurant,” he laid out his observation. “I didn’t see that smile
when you worked for me.”
I laughed out loud with surprise. “That’s because that job sucked,” I replied, my smile broadening.
He chuckled loudly at my unfiltered sincerity.
“I’m glad you found something that makes you happy,” he smiled with genuine happiness, that left
me confused.
“I almost didn’t recognise you, this hair suits you well,” he says breathlessly, as if mesmerized. He raised a hand to my hair gradually caressing a strand in admiration before fixing the collar of my
coat and stepping back.
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I resisted a shiver as his gaze held mine, intense and unwavering. The sincerity in his voice made my heart uncontrollably stutter. Was he truly mesmerized, or was I misreading the situation?
