at me.
“Come again?” My lettuce becoming lodged in my throat.
“I was in love with you. You challenged me, you were and still are completely stunning.”
“Well if that was the case, why were you pawing all over that girl?”
Shaking his head, “That was such a big mistake. I have regretted it ever since. You had me scared. You forced me to open up to a girl like I never had before. I freaked. When you let me have it, which I deserved by the way. I knew I would never find another like you. When I spotted you in the diner today, my hope was renewed.”
Shaking my head, “I’m not ready for anything serious Grant.”
“I’m not asking Lizzy. Now, how did you feel about me?”
“Well honestly, I really did like you a lot.” Trying to be honest but not completely deflate his ego. “I enjoyed our time together, although we were just so different. However, I was quite smitten with you. I can’t lie, it did hurt seeing you all over that other girl.”
Grabbing my hand, I pulled it away quickly. “I’m sorry Lizzy. I never said it then, but I’m saying it now.”
Smiling as our plates arrived, “It’s water under the bridge Grant. We were kids. A lot has changed.”
“Yes it has. How long will you be staying?”
“Indefinitely. I’m in need of a fresh start.”
“Good. Glad to hear it. You keep in touch with anyone else from our class?”
“No. Just Ben.”
Shaking his head, “Are you two…?”
“No. No. Ben is like a brother, I have known him forever.”
“I see. Glad to hear it.”
“How about you Grant? Any lucky lady in your life?”
“No. However, I’m looking to have the spot filled.” He said staring at me. He had a way of making anyone nervous with just one look.
“I see.” Placing the fork down on my plate, I was stuffed.
“When will your divorce be final?”
“I just left him a couple of days ago, the papers are being sent out immediately.” Shifting in my seat uncomfortably.
“He must be an idiot to do something so bad to warrant you leaving him.”
“I don’t really want to talk about it.”
“Okay, well if you need anything at all, I know a few good lawyers. I wouldn’t mind calling in a favor or two.” Picking up the bill and placing a credit card in the flap. His brown hair falling onto his forehead, he was so handsome in the dim light.
“Thank you Grant. That is sweet of you.”
“Sure, you have my number still I hope?”
“It’s in my purse.”
“Good. You ready?” He asked standing up, unsure to offer me a hand or not.
“Yeah.” Pulling out my chair, I grabbed his hand he offered and let him lift me up.
Grant unwilling to relinquish my hand, “You want to go anywhere else?” His eyes searching my face.
“No, I would like to go back to the farm. Thank you.”
“Sure.” Leading me out of the restaurant, he didn’t let go of my hand until after he helped me into his car.
On the way home, he talked about his family some and what they have been up to. I listened, relieved to not have to talk anymore about myself.
Pulling into the drive, he put the car in park. “I’ll walk you to your door.”
Shaking my head, “No need to Grant. Besides, it wasn’t a date right?”
“Right. But I’m still a gentlemen.”
“Okay.” Getting out and glancing over at Ian’s house, all of the lights were still on. “What time is it Grant?”
“Around nine.” Holding on to my arm as I climbed the steps, stopping in front of the door.
“Thank you for dinner. It was kind of you.” Shifting my purse on to my shoulder, looking down at my feet.
“Thank you for coming. You are a hard sell Lizzy.” Lifting up my chin to look at him.
“Goodnight Grant.” Turning to walk in the door, he grabbed my arm gently.
“I don’t even get a hug, after all these years?”
“A hug?” Smiling, “Sure.” Leaning in and embracing him quickly, I was the first to let go. “Good night Grant.” Shutting the door, I waited until I heard the engine
Marc Nager, Clint Nelsen, Franck Nouyrigat